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aphids on cucumber plant #798432

Asked June 29, 2022, 7:33 AM EDT

I planted 2 cucumber plants in a large container. The leaves are covered with aphids. The plant hasn't seemed to be thriving for several weeks before I noticed these tiny black bugs covering the undersides of the leaves. Leaves are dried up and some of the leaves are speckled. I sprayed the leaves with a water and dish soap solution. I don't see the insects moving anymore but there are many on the plant. Should I dispose of the plant and start again or is there a way to save it? Also, there don't seem to be any cucumbers starting to grow. There had been one or two and they shriveled.

Baltimore City County Maryland

Expert Response

Based on your description, it is unlikely these plants are worth saving.  The growing season is still early and you have plenty of time to reseed and start over.   Dish soap solution may have  caused foliage burn that you see.  When you get the new cucumbers to about 4-6" in height, consider prophylaxis against aphids with neem oil.  Inspect plants 2-3 x /week and if there is a light infestation with aphids spray them off with a gentle water spray.  If that fails, then use insecticidal soap, but purchase it at a nursery or hardware store rather than make it at home.  Below are two references from the University of Maryland Extension web site.  The first covers growing cucumbers and the second discusses aphid infestation and its management. 

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/cucumbers

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/aphids-vegetables

should I dispose of the soil in the container pot in case there are aphids in it or can I reuse it after I dispose of the plant itself?

Rona


On Wed, Jun 29, 2022 at 3:56 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 29, 2022, 5:23 PM EDT

Although most aphid varieties live on foliage and feed on the leaves, the grey-white root aphids live in the soil and also lay their eggs in the soil. Although they slightly vary in appearance from the stem/leaf aphids, the damage they cause is similar resulting in leaf and plant wilt and die back if untreated.  Although it sounds like you are dealing with stem/leaf aphids, I would recommend changing the soil in the container just to be on the safe side.  Even if you detect aphids early after germination, the measures that I previously outlined should control them.  Good luck and let me know if you have persistent problems.

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