Organic Aphid Control on Climbing Roses

The Lizard Solution

Beneficial reptiles (anoles, skinks, geckos) devour aphids. Chemical sprays kill them. Stop pesticides → lizards return → aphids vanish.

Creating Reptile Habitat

• Rock piles, log sections, dense shrubs for shelter.
• Shallow water dishes.
• No glue traps, sticky barriers.
• Cats indoors or belled.

Immediate Aphid Knockdown (While Lizards Establish)

1. Strong water blast (jet setting) every 2–3 days.
2. Insecticidal soap (2 tbsp/gallon) on cloudy days.
3. Neem oil (1 tsp/quart) weekly.

Baking Soda Preventive

2 tbsp baking soda + 1 tbsp oil/gal water. Spray weekly for black spot/powdery mildew—also deters aphids.

Soil Health = Plant Health

Compost, mulch, sugar program → vigorous roses resist pests naturally. Healthy plants emit fewer stress signals that attract aphids.