Spruce Aphids

[Robsterios]

Howdy.... I've noticed that horrible black sticky mess left behind on my old Blue Spruce.. .A closer inspection - yeah, aphids.... So I read and search both AB forums and Google re; Aphids on Spruce specifically and control of and can't find too much info... The soapy water wash off followed by a systematic insecticide - Mavrik, perhaps Pyrethrum may be the answer.. Just wondering if the soapy water application could harm the natural coating of spruce needles or any detrimental effects of insecticides on Spruce or Pine for that matter as my Mugo also has it...? Any advice as the best insecticide or other preventative measures....
thanks in anticipation....Rob...

[tgward]

I would suggest water jetting but am unsure how sensitive the new growth would be at the moment

[Watto]

Confidor works well and is safe if used as directed.

[shibui]

Soap won't hurt a spruce. Most aphids are relatively easy to get rid of. I usually use low toxicity sprays like natrasoap or pyrethrum for aphids and leave the big guns/ toxic ones for hard to kill pests.

[Robsterios]

Soap won't hurt a spruce. Most aphids are relatively easy to get rid of. I usually use low toxicity sprays like natrasoap or pyrethrum for aphids and leave the big guns/ toxic ones for hard to kill pests.

Thanks Shibui...that's good information...and yes, would much prefer to use a low toxicity product. ..