Are Green Flies Bad For Plants?
WouterIf you are wondering if green flies are bad for your plants, the answer is no. While they can be a nuisance, they do have their uses. For example, they feed on aphids, which are a problem in gardens. Aphids are small insects that feed on plant sap and secrete a sticky substance to attract other insects. Fortunately, a simple spray made of neem oil can eliminate these pesky insects. Moreover, neem oil is also great for other pests in your garden. You can mix it with a gallon of water or liquid soap and create a homemade greenfly spray.
Although greenfly is not generally harmful to plants, larger infestations can cause considerable damage. Infected plants can lose needles and young growth. In addition, green flies excrete a sugar solution called honeydew. This substance is sticky and can cling to the leaves of plants. This solution can also result in a buildup of sooty mould, which can turn the foliage black and block out light from leaves, thus interfering with photosynthesis.
Homemade fly traps are another option to keep green flies away from plants. These traps are simple to make and can be placed near the plants. A small paper funnel and a jar filled with apple cider vinegar can also be used. The vinegar will attract the flies, which will get stuck in the funnel. You can also place freshly sliced lemons in key areas where you observe green flies. Another natural solution to get rid of green flies from plants is to soak cotton balls in essential oils and place them in key areas. Change the cotton balls every two days.
