Question
My father has indoor Habanero plants and needs a way of pollinating them and controling aphids. any help you can provide would be nice. thanks!

Answer
Tristen, you can hand-pollinate the flowers by taking a Q-tip or small paint brush and transferring the pollen from the male flower to the female (the female always has a small fruit on the end).  This must be done within one day of the female flower blossoming.  

Keep in mind that many of today's hybrids are self-pollinating and do not need a high concentration of bees to produce fruit.  All you need to do with pepper and tomato plants is gently shake the plant every couple of days to improve pollination. Whether or not your particular variety is a hybrid or heirloom should be on the plant tag or seed packet.

On a side note, poor fruit production in indoor plants is usually an indication of overfertilizing the plants.  Many of today's water soluble fertilizers are very high in nitrogen.  This results in lush foliage but often at the expense of a smaller harvest.  Look for a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium.  Many companies now market products formulated especially for peppers and tomatoes, but the ratio of nitrogen to phosphorus is still too high.  I recommend a fertilizer with a 1-2-2 ratio.

In summary, remember to continue fertilizing every other week, and only supplement enough water to ensure a depth of 1.5" per week.  Water only once or twice per week but very deeply, usually when the surface feels very dry.  Shallow watering always results in poor root development and smaller harvests due to the roots reaching for the surface. Also, be sure to mulch heavily with straw or aged grass clippings around the plants to keep in the moisture and to reduce the need for watering.

In regard to aphids, the best control is insecticidal soap. You can buy this product commercially at most garden centers, or you can make your own by adding 3 Tbs. of lemon dish soap (non-concentrated) to one gallon of water.  The fatty acids from the soap will kill the aphids.

Two organic insecticides include pyrethrum and rotenone.  These can also be purchased at most reputable garden centers or online through on-line companies such as Planet Natural or Gardens Alive.  They are highly effective and non-toxic to humans and the environment.

To prevent aphids on outdoor plants, plant garlic in the general vicinity.  I plant garlic bulbs liberally throughout my garden, and I have not had an aphid problem for years.  The smell deters them along with a host of other insects and pests.

I hope this answered your question.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike