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Natural Pesticides

Bhakti Satalkar
Many people today opt for using natural pesticides rather than the chemical ones. Given here is a list of organic pesticides that you can use.
Using natural pesticides are recommended for maintaining the health of the soil and plants, as they are made of organic matter that are eco-friendly and safe for gardening. They repel insects, fungus, mildew, as well as kill mold. The proportions in which you should be using these natural remedies are explained in the following passages.

Garlic

To prepare a potent garlic pesticide, begin soaking 3 to 4 ounces of garlic bulbs in 2 tablespoons of mineral oil. Keep the mixture aside for a day. Thereafter, add 1 teaspoon of fish emulsion to a pint of water and stir well.
Now add the fish emulsion solution to the garlic mixture and strain the concoction to remove any residue. Store the liquid in a glass container and mix it with 1:20 parts of water.

Basil

If you want a true organic pesticide, basil tea is the best option. Boil 4 cups of water, add 1 cup fresh basil leaves and let them steep in water till the brew cools. Next, strain the tea and add 1 to 2 teaspoon liquid detergent to the concoction.

Salt

Dissolve 4 to 5 tablespoons of salt in 1.5 gallons of warm water. When the mixture cools down to room temperature, pour the solution in a spray bottle and use it on the plants. Salt water is best used against caterpillars, cabbage worms, spider mites, or other leaf-chewing insects.

Diatomaceous Earth

If your garden is infested with ants, slugs, etc. diatomaceous earth should be sprayed on the topmost layer of the soil and around the plants.

Citrus Pesticide

Take about 2 cups of any citrus peel. Boil about 4 to 5 cups of water and add the citrus peels to the water. Cover the pan and keep it aside till the water cools down. Strain the mixture and spray the pesticide on the plants.
Natural pesticides are able to curb the spread of pests without causing harm to the plants and soil. Thus, ensuring that your garden remains healthy and free of any chemicals. You may have to seek professional help in case these natural remedies fail to control the infestation in your garden.