Acer under attack!!!

[divegirl]

Hi, I have just noticed that my Acer tree is covered in ants and loads of little black eggs [ I don't think they're ant eggs, but I'm no expert!]. My question is..... What can I spray it with to get rid of the 'nasties'? Are there any 'natural' products I can use as I don't like the idea of using chemicals in the garden? Does spraying with soapy water work?

Lisa x

[mrknowall]

Why dont you get the hose pipe out or put talc on the tree around the base

[Thunderbird+]

Hi divegirl, It's more than likely that the ants are up and down your acer to feed on 'Honeydew' which is secreted by sap sucking insects like aphids and scale insects.
I think the little black things could be aphids, spraying aphids with soap and water is favoured by many who do not wish to use chemicals, it works by clogging up their pores.
Grease bands that you can buy, are claimed to be affective to stop ants climbing but getting rid of the aphids, I think should be the first plan of attack. Good Luck Tbird+

[divegirl]

Awwww, thank you both! I don't want to deprieve[sp] the ants of their 'honeydew', nor do I want my Acer to suffer....My kids bought it from Woolies for Mother's Day about five years ago and it was no more than a twig...I have loved it and hugged it....lol. i will try all you suggest. Many thanks and a Happy Easter to you both.

Lisa x

[tas]

Acers usually suffer from green fly and aphids but there are likely to be ladybirds whenever you see them because they feed on them. Basically they're the gardeners friend and enviromentally friendly. You can buy them from large garden centres in their egg form if you need to introduce them to you garden. Good luck with your acer.
Tas