Black bean aphids

By Michael Smith (Veshengro)

black_bean_aphids Epsom, UK, June 2011: Now, just when you thought that you had things on the right track there arrives, yet again, another villain, the Black Bean Aphid (Aphis fabae), aka Black Fly.

So, when you have beans (and peas) growing, in all stages, keep a look out for those little villain on your broad bean crops as well as your runner beans and other legumes.

The easiest way to deal with Black Fly seems to be some good old soapy water in a trigger spray bottle or other spraying device. You can also get some Pyrethrum insecticide, which is plant based, and I am wondering as to whether planting Pyrethrum as companion for beans and peas might repel those nasty critters. Shall try and report back.

© 2011