Alternatives to commercial garden insecticides can be made at home...
There are many books with recipes written by specialists, but remember some may still be toxic and food plants may require a withholding period. Examples of alternative sprays are:
* Garlic sprays can be effective and are commercially available. Good against aphids, caterpillars, cut worms, flies and snails.
* Spray with a soft-soap solution which can easily be prepared at home. Good against aphids.
* Another way to control sucking pests, particularly on citrus, is to make a soap and washing-soda scale and aphid spray.
* Try 'quassia aphid and caterpillar spray'.
* Some commercial pyrethrum sprays are acceptable, but first check the label on the pack to make sure the spray does not contain a more toxic chemical. |
