Learn How to Make and Use Garlic Water Pesticide for Plants and get rid of pests naturally without any side effects.
Garlic, with its active sulfur compounds, is an effective organic way to get rid of pests naturally. It is easy to use and keeps the soil free from harmful chemicals. Keep reading to learn how to Make and Use Garlic Water Pesticide for Plants.
Why Garlic Works as a Natural Pesticide
Garlic contains Allicin, a sulfur compound released when it is crushed or chopped. Allicin is toxic to many pests and fungi and acts as a natural deterrent.
Additionally, garlic has a strong smell that confuses insects like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which makes it harder for them to locate their host plants.
Other compounds in garlic, such as diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, also have repellent properties, further enhancing its pest-fighting capabilities.
How to Make and Use Garlic Water Pesticide for Plants
You’ll Need:
- Garlic
- Chili Powder or Jalapeno
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Mild Liquid Dish Soap, 1/2 Teaspoon (Optional)
Instructions:
- Crush 5 to 6 garlic cloves (for stronger infestation, use 8 to 10) in a blender and make a smooth paste.
- Add jalapeno or one spoonful of pepper and blend again.
- Now, add 4 cups of water to the blender and beat a couple of times.
- Pour the solution into a glass bowl, cover it, and allow to steep overnight.
- Strain and fill it in a clean spray bottle; if you like, add mild biodegradable soap to increase adherence. Your organic garlic water pesticide is ready!
- Store in the refrigerator when not in use, but remember that it won’t last after a few days.
The solution also repels rats, rabbits, elk, deer, and voles well.
How to Use a Garlic Water Pesticide
You can use garlic water solution on flowers, fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
- Spray the solution at the bottom of the leaves, where many pests lay eggs.
- Use it once a week for better prevention. If your plants have severe pest issues, then spray garlic water twice a week or whenever you see pests.
- During rain, when plants get wet, re-apply the solution. Do this every time you water the plants, too.
Benefits of Using Garlic Water Pesticide for Plants
Garlic water is completely organic and safe for both plants and humans. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), contact with certain toxic pesticides poses potential health risks. Using garlic water eliminates these risks!
It is also effective against bean beetles, whiteflies, aphids, Colorado potato beetles, spider mites, moths, ants, termites, and cabbage worms while keeping the beneficial bugs safe. You can use garlic water solution as a soil treatment for fungus gnats and nematodes too.
Garlic Water for Houseplants
Garlic water can be applied to many houseplants to repel common pests. It can be used on plants such as pothos, peace lilies, snake plants, and fiddle-leaf figs.
Note: Garlic water is not recommended for plants with delicate, fuzzy leaves (like African violets) without testing first, as the oils and soap can cause damage. Always dilute properly and avoid overuse to prevent any harm to the plant.
Some Preventive Measures
Though garlic water is non-toxic, it can be an irritant, mainly to the eyes. It is a good idea to wear gloves while using the solution. Always keep the nozzle of the spray bottle away from your face. After spraying the solution, keep your kids and pets away from the plants for some hours.
Use garlic water within a week, as it loses potency over time. Keep it in the refrigerator for better shelf life. Overapplication can lead to garlic buildup on leaves, which might block sunlight and affect photosynthesis. To avoid, you can spray with normal water after some time once the pest infestation is over!
For better results, you can use garlic water alongside other natural pest control methods like neem oil.
