diy pest control sprays

 Lacewings love to eat aphids...

...and so do Ladybugs

If your bugs aren't eating fast enough, consider these do-it-yourself remedies... use thoughtfully and directly on affected plants. 

DIY dish soap spray   

Controls: aphids, leadfhoppers, thrips, scales, and mealy bugs

Benefits: non-toxic to people and pets, dehydrates the buggies

Cons: harmful to beneficial insects, use carefully and directly on affected plants; careful not to use too much on fruit bearing plants or vegetables as it can interfere with fruit production

DIY: mix 1 to 3 teaspoons organic/biodegradable liquid dish soap or castile soap, like Dr.Bronner's, with one gallon of water. Spray directly on affected areas

DIY soap and oil spray 

Controls: soft bodied bugs such as aphids, mites and mealy bugs

Benefits: non-toxic to people and pets, oil smothers the bugs

Cons: can burn the leaves of sensitive plants; harmful to beneficial insects, use carefully and directly on affected plants

DIY: mix one tablespoon veg oil and a few drops of biodegradable dish soap into a quart of water. Shake well and pour into a spray bottle. 

Note: Apply them early in the morning or just before dark. Re-apply after a rain. Wear protective clothing when spraying insecticides.