Question
Have a couple of questions. I mix up soapy solution to get rid of the aphids and it works but it deforms the leaves. Is this from doing it in the day time or too much soap. Secondly, this year I just found some small worms?? about 1/8" very pretty with orange/black stripes perpendicular to the length. They are on a plant that suddenly came down with massive aphids.
All of my Jalapenos are grown in pots and I usually fight the aphids but have never seen this bug. Are they the ones (also) that curl up leave with spider web looking material?

Thanks

Answer
Les, homemade insecticidal soap must be made from non-concentrated dishsoap. Simply mix one tablespoon of the dishsoap with one tablespoon of lemon ammonia per one gallon of water. The key, however, is non-concentrated. The concentrated brands are too strong and can burn the foliage.

The insect you described sounds like the hornworm. This and all other worms can be controlled with a product called BT, short for Bacillus Thuringiensis, and more commonly sold under the brand names Dipel or MVP. It is an organic dust that is non-toxic to humans and beneficials but highly effective against caterpillars, cabbage worms, and hornworms. As with other organic controls, you can purchase this product through on-line catalogs such as Gardens Alive and Planet natural, or locally at many garden centers.  

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Have a good weekend.  

Mike