No matter what you think about pesticides, they are a necessary addition to our gardens. Without those bug sprays there’s no chance for plants to thrive. Sure, the chemicals inside the bottles aren’t doing plants any favor, but they are effective keeping bugs at bay. Unfortunately, the trade off is toxic pesticides in your produce that people are always looking to avoid.
Still, we need to do something to eliminate pests. Luckily for you, we have a list of the top natural insecticides and pesticides that will prevent bugs from gnawing at your plants and help them thrive like they should.
Essential Oil Pesticide
Essential oils have a plethora of uses, and one of them is to keep your plants and garden safe from pests. To make your homemade bug repellent, choose three of your favorite essential oils and mix them in a spray bottle with water. Spray this mix all over your garden and it’ll be bug-free.
DIY Insecticidal Soap
A good soap such as Fels Naptha with some water will make a powerful insecticide to keep pests at bay. It’s a cheap solution without any harmful chemicals that can hamper the growth of your plants. Grate the soap, mix it with water in a spray bottle, and voila! You have a great pest repellent.
DIY Fungicide and Pesticide
Did you know that regular dishwasher soap mixed with water can prevent pests and fungi in your garden? Choose a biodegradable brand without any phosphates and mix it with plain water in a spray bottle. It won’t harm you or your pets or children, and will prevent the growth of fungi and pests from crowding your garden.
Oil Spray for Veggie Gardens
Spider mites, aphids, and similar bugs are the most common infestations in gardens all over the world. They love veggies and are pretty hard to repel. Well, unless you try this DIY oil spray. Mix a bit of dishwasher soap and cooking oil in some water to make an effective pest repellent oil spray for your garden full of tasty veggies.
Peppermint Oil Pest Deterrent
Bugs hate peppermint oil. It’s a non-toxic solution to keep bugs away from your plants. Buy peppermint oil from any store, mix with water, and spray your garden with it. The results will be amazing.
DIY Castile Soap Insecticide
Castile soap is a pretty great solution against all types of garden bugs. A single package of the soap is enough to fill more than a few bottles that will last for a long time. Grate some, mix with water, and spray your garden with this powerful insecticide.
Neem Oil Pest Deterrent
Similar to peppermint oil, neem oil is a great pesticide for your plants. Get some cold-pressed neem oil, mix it with antiseptic soap and water, and spray it all over your garden to prevent various infestations.
Homemade Vegetable Soup Pesticide
A veggie soup made with garlic, onions, and jalapeno is a great pesticide that’ll prevent bugs from infesting your garden. Make the soup and pour some in a spray bottle, then use as needed. It’s probably the most natural pesticide ever and the recipe is so easy even kids can prepare it.