Natural pest control: Defending your plants with pantry staples
Pests are the bane of every plant lover. If even one flower gets infected, the rest can quickly follow. It might be the first sign of an insect infestation if you notice that your plants are wilting. Here’s how you can make sure.
Potted plants can become breeding grounds for pests in many ways. One common source is introducing new plants that are already infested. These insects can easily transfer to other plants, escalating the issue.
Pests can also appear due to improper growing conditions. Excessive humidity or wet soil creates an ideal environment for larvae and insects. That’s why it’s crucial to regularly monitor your plants' condition, water the soil properly, and ensure its good quality.
How to recognize that a plant is infected?
Recognizing pests in potted plants isn’t difficult if you know what to look for. The first sign might be changes in the appearance of the leaves. Yellowing, wilting, or spotting could indicate a problem.
It’s also worth examining the underside of the leaves and the soil surface. Small bugs or insect eggs, like gnats, often gather there. Unfortunately, some insects are so small they're hard to see with the naked eye. However, to be certain your flowers are infested, you can try a cucumber test. How?
Test for pests in the pot
All you need is a small piece of fresh cucumber. Simply cut about a 1 cm slice, place it on the damp soil in the pot, and leave it for 24 hours. Insects attracted by the juicy and aromatic cucumber will surely take a bite. After the time has passed, carefully examine the cucumber — if it’s nibbled or covered with dark spots, it confirms the presence of insects.
How to combat pests with home remedies?
Natural methods to fight pests in pots are effective and eco-friendly. Start with garlic-based preparations. Its intense aroma repels many insects, so prepare a mixture of crushed garlic cloves mixed with water and water the plants with it.
Another ally in this fight is apple cider vinegar. Adding a few tablespoons to your watering can help eliminate unwanted guests. Pests dislike its sour taste, making it a natural deterrent.
