Neem oil is proven effective against grasshoppers.
Throughout history, the pest-repelling properties of the neem tree have been known in the tropics, the tree's native environment. Azadirachtin, the main ingredient in neem oil, is a pest repellant as well as anti-feedant. Many pests simply stay away from the product, but those who consume the pesticide will soon stop eating. This product also inhibits the ability for pests to lay eggs. Instead of killing pests directly like chemical pesticides, neem oil changes their behavior patterns, causing them to die off naturally. This pesticide has been shown effective against hundreds of insects including aphids, Japanese beetles, cockroaches and fleas.
Instructions
Making Pesticide
1. Look for neem oil products specifically labeled "cold pressed" and "organic" in natural food stores or from trusted online providers. Cold-pressed neem oil is extracted from the seeds using only pressure; no chemicals or heat are involved. This process allows most of the pesticidal properties to stay intact, creating the most effective final product. Additionally, the purchase of organic oils further ensures that no chemicals are used in the extraction process or during tree growth, which keeps your food crop chemical-free.
2. Use liquid soap in this recipe to help the neem oil to adhere to slick plant leaves. Dish soap is widely available and is safe for garden use, meaning it is not damaging to plants or soil. By using organic dish soap, the final pesticide product remains organic. Fine these soaps at any natural food store.
3. Add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid soap to 1 quart of warm water in a spray bottle. Warm water is the basis for this pesticide because it makes all the ingredients combine well. Cover and shake well to mix. Once the soap dissolves, add 1 teaspoon of neem oil to the mixture and shake well.
4. Apply neem oil to plant leaves every seven days to control current pests and prevent a future infestation. When applying, spray the bottoms of the leaves and the interior plant leaves, where pests often hide. Because neem oil does not kill all pests immediately, it may take up to two weeks to see results. At that point you should see considerably less damage, and new pest occurrences should be limited.
Tags: plant leaves, effective against, liquid soap, natural food, shake well