There’s nothing worse than a backyard full of weeds, pests and diseases… except a load of nasty chemicals, of course!
Not only does this recipe keep your garden chemical-free, it actually works, too!
How to make an all-natural pesticide
Pests will always be a part of gardening, however they can be controlled. Chemicals should be used as a last resort only and all other means by which to control pests should be attempted first.
You’ll need:
- 2 garlic bulbs, chopped
- 3 large chillis
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – sunflower oil
- 1 dessert spoon biodegradable dish liquid
- 4 cups of water
Combine ingredients and then leave overnight to strain.
Is vinegar a good natural pesticide?
There aren’t many products that can do as much as vinegar. Not only can it clean every area of your home but it’s a weed killer too. Vinegar is best used on young, annual weeds and applied several times. However, vinegar also has the potential to target the older more stubborn weeds, all you need to do is drench the roots with a strong 20 percent vinegar mix.
More tips for removing pests from your garden
While this natural pest spray is a gret starting point, depending on the bug you are dealing with, you might have to up the ante to keep your plants pest-free.
- Aphids: when it comes Aphids, you could also try a soap spray. Mix 2 tablespoons of soap flakes to 1 litre of water into a spray bottle and spray the leaves (don’t forget the undersides). Attracting ladyugs is also an excellent way to keep aphids out of your garden.
- Plant the right plants: use your garden to your advantage and plant plants that keep pests away. Read our article on garden plants that battle the bugs.
- Mealybugs: if it’s mealybugs, you can try methylated spirits. Get a cotton bud and dip it into methylated spirits and dab the bugs.
For more information, head to thehomegarden.com
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