Utilizing Insecticidal Soap to Eliminate Annoying Pests - Discover 3 Effective Methods for Homemade Spray Creation
Insecticidal soap, also known as horticultural soap, is a popular choice among gardeners for its non-toxic and environmentally-friendly properties. This natural pesticide is formed from potassium salts of fatty acids and is effective against soft-bodied pests such as aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale [1].
Insecticidal soap works by removing the protective membrane from the insect's body, causing them to dry out. However, it may be less effective on insect eggs [2]. It's important to note that insecticidal soap has no residual activity left behind, relying on contact to kill pests. If an insect has not come into contact with the spray, it isn't affected [3].
While insecticidal soap is generally safe to use on edible plants as well as around children and pets, some plants are more susceptible to it than others. Plants such as succulents, portulaca, cucumber, crown of thorn, plums, cherries, jade, impatiens, gardenia, lantana, nasturtium, river birch, schefflera, Easter lily, maidenhair fern, red bud, dieffenbachia, poinsettia, palms, azalea, begonia, geranium, fuchsia, and certain species like horse chestnuts, sweet peas, bleeding hearts, mountain ashes, and Japanese maples may develop symptoms like yellow or brown leaf spots, brown leaf tips, or sunscald after application [1][4].
To use insecticidal soap, dilute the mixture with water prior to application. A traditional recipe includes 2.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 2.5 tablespoons of pure liquid soap (like Castile soap), and 1 gallon of warm water. For a milder all-around pest repellent, you can use 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of pure liquid soap, 1 quart (1 L) of warm water, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of ground red pepper or garlic, and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of apple cider vinegar [1].
When applying insecticidal soap, it's best to wear gloves to avoid any potential irritation. Store-bought horticultural soaps will list the application instructions, which are generally safe for humans and animals. However, some people may get a rash from them, so it's always a good idea to exercise caution [5].
Seedlings, young transplants, plants with new growth flushes, and unrooted cuttings generally show greater sensitivity to insecticidal soaps, regardless of plant species. It is recommended to test insecticidal soap on a small part of a sensitive plant before broader application to avoid damage [2].
In conclusion, insecticidal soap is a valuable tool for gardeners, providing a safe and effective solution for managing pests. However, it's essential to understand the sensitivity of certain plants and follow the recommended application guidelines to ensure the health of your garden.
References: [1] University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Horticultural Oils and Soaps. Retrieved from https://appliedresearch.ucanr.edu/?blogpost=226424 [2] Purdue University Extension. (n.d.). Insecticidal Soap. Retrieved from https://extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/BN/BN-108-W.pdf [3] Ohio State University Extension. (n.d.). Insecticidal Soap. Retrieved from https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-2077 [4] Cornell University Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). Insecticidal Soap. Retrieved from https://blogs.cornell.edu/vegetablemd/insecticidal-soap/ [5] Washington State University Extension. (n.d.). Insecticidal Soaps. Retrieved from https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/2015/06/10/insecticidal-soaps/
Insecticidal soap is beneficial for home-and-garden enthusiasts, as it provides a safe and ecologically friendly means to manage pests within the garden. Gardening with delicate plants like succulents, portulaca, or cherries may require extra precaution when using insecticidal soap to prevent potential damage, such as yellow or brown leaf spots.
