When you start to see insects on your plants, it is essential to identify them before you take action. Knowing what kind of pests you’re dealing with makes it much easier to choose the best organic pesticide. Organic pesticides prove effective at helping you get rid of harmful pests in your garden. They are safe to use around plants and will not harm them.
Some people use harmful chemicals and pesticides, thinking their plants will remain safe. But what happens is contrary; these chemicals and pesticides are toxic to the environment and harmful to animals and plants. Besides, exposure to them can lead to severe illnesses and various health effects that range from cardiovascular diseases to respiratory diseases. Avoid using chemicals and pesticides to protect your plants; instead, opt for organic pesticides.
The following is a list of organic pesticides that help you kill garden pests without harming your plants:
1. Insecticidal Soap Spray
You can buy this soap spray from a store, or you can prepare it yourself at home. Add 3 drops of mild dishwashing liquid to one-quarter of the water. Also, add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil to help this mixture cling to the leaves. Pour it into the bottle and spray it on the plants to the point of drenching. Please don’t use it on blossoms or when the temperature reaches above 80 degrees Fahrenheit to help prevent the scorching of plants.
2. Garlic Spray
This spray has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties, proving to be a potent organic pesticide. To make this spray, peel and crush 7 garlic bulbs and mix them with 16 ounces of water. Place the garlic in the water overnight to create an effective infusion. Add a bit of dish soap to this mixture, then strain this liquid. Dilute it in a gallon of water and transfer it to a spray bottle. You can use this solution at least once a week or twice a week to effectively control insect pests and protect your plants against damage.
3. Neem Oil Spray
Neem is known for its medical and culinary properties and is effective as a pest deterrent. This medicinal herb has a strong odor and bitter taste, which helps keep bugs away from your plants. It is harmless to humans, birds, animals, and plants. You can prepare this neem oil spray at home by adding neem oil to liquid soap and warm water. Stir slowly and immediately pour this liquid into a spray bottle to spray on the leaves of plants often attacked by pests before they get infested.
4. Tomato Leaves Spray
The leaves of tomato plants contain tomatine and solanine and are used as an insecticide. It helps prevent aphids and other types of insects from damaging your plants. You can make a tomato leaf spray at home and use it as a natural insecticide. Chop 2 cups of fresh tomato leaves and place them in a quarter of water. Allow this mixture to steep overnight so that it creates an effective illusion. Strain this liquid and transfer it into a spray bottle. Spray this liquid onto the plant’s foliage to protect garden plants from pests.
5. Diatomaceous Earth
It is made from fossilized algae and proves an effective barrier against insects, snails, and slugs. It is a safe and natural insecticide that smothers insects and draws moisture from their exoskeletons. You have to reapply this spray after every rain. To use this spray, sprinkle it on the ground around affected plants to create a protective shield around them. DE has several uses in and around your house and is the best natural pesticide. You can easily buy DE spray from garden stores.
6. Vegetable Oil Spray
To make this homemade insecticide spray, combine vegetable oil and mild soap. Mix the oil with a tablespoon of soap and shake it thoroughly. When it is ready to use, take 2 spoons of the oil mixture and combine it with 1-quarter of the water. Mix this mixture thoroughly and apply it to the surface of plants affected by pests. This oil spray is effective against mites, thrips, and aphids. It coats the bodies of insects and suffocates them by blocking the pore through which they breathe.
Takeaways
Organic pesticides are vital in protecting indoor plants against damage from insects or pests. Opt for natural ones or make homemade organic sprays that will take care of your plants without causing any harm to their overall health. When required, apply these sprays to your plants and get the job done in the best way.