Garden pests and insects are an inevitable part of gardening. It is important for gardeners to protect their plants from the attack of these pests using various pest control methods. Chemical pesticides are one of the commonly used methods to deter garden pests, which also offer quicker results.
However, chemicals used in these products can damage the environment and soil. These traditional pest control methods are toxic for birds, fish, beneficial insects, and other organisms. They also cause skin irritation and other health-related problems for humans. Therefore, it is important to use organic and natural pest control that can be prepared at home.
List of DIY and Organic Pest Control
Here is a list of DIY methods for pest control, which protect plants without harming the environment or soil. Unlike chemical repellents, these solutions do not contain toxic chemicals.
Onion Brew
Onion brew can keep away different types of insects. The brew works perfectly well against ants, aphids, and armyworms. They also deter borer insects such as caterpillars.
To make an onion brew, gardeners need to chop four cups of onions finely. These onions go into two litres of water. The mixture needs to steep for a full day, after which the solution can be strained to filter out the onion pieces. The brew can be applied directly to plants. It is best to let the mixture ferment before use for effective results.
Garlic Brew
Garlic brew is another efficient solution that can keep pests away from plants. This brew repels ants, aphids, and caterpillars. It also works best against nematodes.
To create this brew, finely chop one half cup of garlic. This finely chopped garlic should be added to three fourth liters of water. Let the mixture soak well for 24 hours, after which the liquid needs to be strained to remove garlic pieces. The finished brew can be applied both to the plant and to the soil around it.
Dish Soap Spray
To make this solution, dissolve one tablespoon of mild liquid soap in one quart of water. The soap should be pure dish soap without any bleach, degreasers, or detergents added. While applying this spray, make sure to cover the entire plant without leaving any spots.
Both sides of the leaves must be sprayed, along with the stems. Soap sprays only work while they are wet, so they need to be applied regularly. It is best to reapply every 4-7 days until the pest population goes down. After several applications, plants should be rinsed with plain water to remove soapy residue. Gardeners can also rely on rain to do this job as well.
Neem Oil
Organic neem oil is made from neem tree seeds and works as a natural insecticide against many pests. It works well against aphids and Japanese beetles. The oil is non-toxic to both pets and humans, which makes it safe to use around the home.
Neem oil disrupts how insects complete their life cycles and also acts as a deterrent that keeps the pests away. The product is biodegradable and can also be purchased at garden stores or natural food markets. Gardeners can spray plants with neem oil before infestation occurs as a preventive measure.
Tomato Leaves Insecticide
Tomato leaves contain compounds called solanine and tomatine that work as insecticides. To make this insecticide, soak two cups of fresh tomato leaves in one quart of water overnight. The next day, strain the mixture to remove all the soaked leaves, and the mixture will be ready to use.
This solution kills aphids and various types of chewing insects. In addition to this, it also attracts beneficial insects to the garden. However, this spray should not be used on other nightshade plants like eggplants, peppers, or potatoes. This practice should be strictly avoided because it can spread disease to other plants.
Gliricidia
Gliricidia is a tree that fixes nitrogen, thereby helping in soil amelioration. The leaves also serve as an effective insecticide against both chewing and boring insects. This particular component can be used in two ways.
The first method involves picking leaves and placing them near the plants requiring protection. Once the leaves are dry, they can be removed or left as mulch that helps in the growth of these plants. Fresh leaves can be placed as and when required.
The second method requires pounding a generous amount of leaves and adding a small amount of water. This should be soaked for 24 hours and then strained. The liquid should be applied during evening watering.
Chilli Spray
Fresh hot peppers or chilli powder are a natural insect repellent spray. For a powder consistency, mix one tablespoon of chilli powder with one quart of water and add a few drops of mild soap.
When using fresh peppers, half a cup should be blended with one cup of water. Then add one quart of water to this mixture. Then boil the whole thing, cool it, and strain. Make sure to add soap to this mixture, which can be applied to plants to keep the pests away.
Vegetable Oil Spray
Vegetable oil mixed with mild soap also creates an effective homemade insecticide. Soaps like Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap work well for this purpose. To prepare this mixture, thoroughly mix one cup of vegetable oil with one tablespoon of mild soap.
When ready to use, two teaspoons of this concentrate should be mixed into one quart of water. The mixture needs to be shaken thoroughly before spraying directly on plants. The oil kills insects by suffocating them and blocking their breathing pores.
Conclusion
DIY garden pest control using natural ingredients is a practical and sustainable solution for protecting plants. This prevents artificial chemicals from entering the soil, thus preventing further damage due to ingestion. Sprays and other forms of insecticides can be made using materials available in the kitchen, making it a more affordable way to keep both plants and humans healthy.