Are you looking for ways to get rid of that mildewy powder on tomato leaves without harmful pesticides? Or do you need to get rid of the mealybugs on the leaves of your houseplant?
If you are like me, not a big fan of using pesticides because of the chemicals, then the best option for you is to make your own homemade pesticide. Below you will find step by step guide on how to make horticultural oil at home.
What is Horticultural Oil Used For?
Horticultural oil is a natural pesticide used to get rid of mealybugs, whiteflies, chiggers, earwigs, aphids, spider mites, mites, caterpillars and leafhoppers. Horticultural oil will also get rid of the powdery mildew on leaves.
| List of Insects |
|---|
| Aphids |
| Chiggers |
| Caterpillars |
| Leafhoppers |
| Mealybugs |
| Mites |
| Earwigs |
| Spider Mites |
| Whiteflies |
When sprayed directly on insects, horticultural oil kills insects by suffocating them. It is also effective on eggs and larvae.
Where Can I use Horticultural Oil?
You can use horticultural oil on any plants- both indoors and outdoor plants. I like to use horticultural oil on houseplants since it’s safe to use around children and pets. I also like to use horticultural oil in my vegetable garden since it’s safe to use on fruits and vegetables. I do wash off the residue once it dries to make sure I’m not consuming horticultural oil.
How to Make Horticultural Oil
Below is a recipe for homemade Horticultural Oil.
Ingredients for Horticultural Oil
- 1 Cup Vegetable Oil (Soybean oil or Cottonseed Oil)
- 1 Tbsp Baby Shampoo or Dish Liquid
- 1 Gallon Water
How to Make Horticultural Oil
1. Mix vegetable oil, baby shampoo and water
2. Pour Horticultural Oil solution into a spray bottle
3. Spray Horticultural oil directly on insects
How to Apply Horticultural Oil on Plants
Spray Horticultural Oil under the leaves of plants. That’s usually where insects hide. You will also find insect eggs and larvae under the leaves.
Horticultural Oil only works when it is sprayed directly on the insects, larvae or eggs. Horticultural Oil needs to penetrate the insect’s body to work. It doesn’t work when it is dried up on the leaves.
When to Spray Horticultural Oil on Plants
It’s best to spray Horticultural Oil when it’s cloudy, not too sunny- avoid intense sun. Wait until very late in the afternoon to spray horticultural oil on plants.
Do You Need to Wash Off Horticultural Oil Residue?
It’s best to wash off Horticultural Oil residue on plants. You don’t want to leave the residue on plants because oil can burn the leaves of plants. Wait a few hours before washing off the residue.
How Frequently Can You Spray Horticultural Oil on Plants?
Like any pesticide, use Horticultural Oil sparingly. Don’t over spray just because it is a homemade pesticide. After all, it is still a pesticide! The run-off from Horticultural Oil into the soil is harmful for plants. Use Horticultural Oil sparingly.
You May Also Be Interested In:
How to Start a Vegetable Garden
How to Take Care of Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Infographics)
Lazy Gardener’s Guide: How to Grow Irises
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