How to Avoid Aphids on Hydrangea

Establish hydrangeas in an area with optimal growing conditions. This encourages strong growth and reduces the potential for infestations of aphids. Healthy plants can survive some predation, while weaker plants in less than prime condition can more easily be damaged. Plant hydrangeas in rich, well drained soil exposed to partial sun. Hydrangeas planted in very hot or dry areas need more shade, but hydrangeas do best when they receive partial sun. Plant hydrangeas on the north side of your home; this provides enough light without scorching your plants. Water your hydrangeas as needed, but don't allow them to stand in water. Watering requirements increase or decrease according to climate conditions. Don't allow soil surrounding your hydrangeas to become dry between waterings.

Wash off your hydrangeas with your garden hose when watering them. Aphids are small pear-shaped insects that prefer the tender new growth of hydrangea plants; once the new growth becomes too thick and tough for the aphids to penetrate, they will move on. Inspect new growth on hydrangeas for aphids. Aphids often shield themselves from the sun by seeking the shadiest portions of a plant. Inspect the undersides of leaves and stems for clusters of aphids, which may be pale green to dark brown in color. Heavy infestations of aphids can cause plant leaves and stems to shrivel.

Use biological pest control for a safe and effective method of wiping out aphids. Release the beneficial insects in aphid infested areas according to the supplier's directions for your location. Using an Insecticidal soap product provides non-toxic aphid control if you prefer to remove aphids from hydrangeas without using beneficial insects or harmful chemicals. Insecticidal soaps work by soaking and suffocating aphids.They are non-toxic when sprayed on hydrangeas as directed.