Recommendations for 'soapsuds' to use spray plants with tons of aphids on them please?

Hi,

Researching the ongoing problem with aphids on my Buddeliah, which are now turning the lovely new leaves curly, lead me to find a site that said to mix washing up liquid and water put it in a spray bottle to spray the aphids every day.

BUT it didn't say if 'normal' washing up liquid was OK. I use a normal cruelty-free one, is that OK, or should I buy a particular type please, I don't want to damage the plant.

Thank you.

 

Could not find a reply, I too would like clarification on this method of tackling Aphids.

 

Isn't the correct term "soft soap ",whatever that is.
It all goes soft if you leave it long enough.

 

You need horticultural soft soap, and it is legal to use it as a pesticide. It's old fashioned soap, saponified vegetable oil, rather than a harsh modern detergent such as that found in washing up liquids.

Here is a supplier:
Soft Soap

 

Good to see it's real cheap.
I had a feeling it would be .

 

That'll be useful @The Buddleja Garden I've just started trying distilled white vinegar and water but I'm a bit concerned about burning spiders and the likes.

 

Presumably soap kills spiders as well.

 

Hi i read use milk to get rid of aphids and some pests i havent used it yet for pests but i might try it
i have used milk on its own and with water on some plants and getting rid of leaf spot on my rose and red robin and it did the trick

 

I use Aldi brand washing up liquid and it is great for instantly killing ants too. I don't kill spiders.

 

I've had decent results with regular detergent. No damage to plants, and no impact on my apple tree or the fruit.

I add anti-aphid insecticide to the sprayer too, giving them a double whammy. The detergent gets through their protective honeydew, and the insecticide makes sure they're dead. It's not ideal for insects, but one good dose of this tends to be all I need, so long term it's not a big deal.

 

@JWK can i ask how you use it please.