The fight against insects, fungi, bacteria, and competing weeds that cause crop loss and quality decline in agriculture has been carried out since ancient times using various agricultural methods and pesticide recipes. While chemical pesticides dominate food production in large-scale industrial agriculture, ancestral methods are still used effectively in boutique production. In this article, we will examine natural pesticide recipes and their uses.
Natural Pesticide Recipes
Garlic Spray (Insecticide and Bactericide)
Garlic is a natural insect repellent and antibiotic. Applying a garlic spray to the plant is particularly effective against aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars.
Preparation:
Mix 2 whole garlic cloves with 1 liter (4 cups) of water and soak them in a closed container overnight. After straining, mix with 1 tablespoon of natural liquid soap—never use detergent; use a glycerin- and lye-based natural soap. Pour into a spray bottle and spray on the plant's leaves morning and evening.
Hot Pepper Spray (Insecticide)
Hot pepper is also a natural insect repellent. It is especially effective against mites, aphids, ants, and mealybugs.
Preparation:
Mix 1 tablespoon of ground dried cayenne pepper (or 3 fresh chilies) with 1 liter of water. Add 1 teaspoon of natural liquid soap. Pour into a spray bottle, shake well, and apply immediately. You can spray it on plant leaves and fruits. However, do not use it on the leaves of sensitive plants or on very hot days, as it may burn the plant!
Neem Oil Spray (Insecticide and Fungicide)
Neem oil is effective in combating hundreds of pests and fungi.
Preparation:
Mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil with 1/2 teaspoon of natural liquid soap and 1 liter of warm water. Pour into a spray bottle and shake well before each use. Spray plants once a week to combat plant infections and pests.
Citrus Peel Spray (Insecticide)
The acids found in the peels of fruits like lemons and oranges are especially effective in combating soft-bodied insects and aphids.
Preparation:
Boil the peels of 2-3 lemons or oranges in 2 cups of water. After the mixture cools, strain it and pour it into a spray bottle. The citric acid in this mixture disrupts the nervous system of insects and weakens their activity. It can be safely applied directly to plants.
Salt and Vinegar Mixture (Herbicide)
A salt and vinegar mixture is a harmless mixture that inhibits weed growth. However, it is not suitable for use in food production or vegetable beds, as it will harm your plants. It is only suitable for preventing weed growth in your garden, along sidewalks, and on paved paths.
Preparation:
Mix 1 liter of vinegar with 1 tablespoon of natural soap and 2 heaping tablespoons of salt. This mixture will kill both the leaves and roots of the plants you apply it to.
Boiling Water (Herbicide)
You can pour boiling water directly onto weeds on sidewalks or driveways, or use it to keep paths clear in your garden. Excessive heat will damage all parts of the plant. It works best on young weeds. Be careful not to get it on the roots of your homegrown plants.
Milk Spray (Fungicide)
This mixture made with milk is effective in combating all types of fungal infections.
Preparation:
Mix 1 part milk (whole or skim) with 2 parts water and pour into a spray bottle. Spray every 5-7 days in sunlight. Milk proteins react with sunlight to produce disinfectant radicals.
Chamomile Tea Spray (Fungicide)
Chamomile is used to combat fungi that rot seedlings.
Preparation:
Brew a fairly concentrated amount of chamomile tea. Let it cool, then spray on young seedlings or the soil surface. Spray early in the morning or after sunset, avoiding direct sunlight. Shake the mixture before each use. Avoid using strong sprays on new seedlings or sensitive plants without testing on a small number of plants. Repeat weekly or after rain.
CONCLUSION
This and many other natural recipes can help you protect your garden or agricultural produce without chemicals. Furthermore, plant combinations that support each other and keep your garden ecosystem healthy, as well as permacultural approaches, can help you create a healthy garden without the use of pesticides.
However, whatever you use in food production, consuming it without proper washing and preparation poses a food safety risk. If you live in areas where industrial agriculture is prevalent or near cities, we recommend testing for pesticides, even if your own produce is. Furthermore, these naturally persistent substances are dispersed through both air and water and can reach anywhere.
