Growing your own organic herbs is a wonderful way to provide fresh tasting and healthy meals for your family. But, keeping insects away from your plants without using harsh chemicals can be a challenge. Organic pesticides are a safe and effective way of preserving your herbs from insect predators without the worries of chemicals.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is one of the most potent pesticides available. The oil from a neem leaf contains over 50 different pest-killing chemicals, making it difficult for insects to build up a tolerance to the oil. However, it is important to note that neem oil does take time to work. Neem oil causes insects to stop eating and mating. Over time, the insects will begin to die off and not reproduce. Be sure to allow several weeks for neem oil to take full effect.
You can make a neem oil spray by adding 1 oz. of neem oil to a gallon of water. Mix well and apply to plants using a spray container. Be sure to reapply several times a week, especially after a rain shower or watering your garden.
Onion, Jalapeño Peppers and Garlic
Another commonly used combination for ridding your herb garden of insects is onion, jalapeno peppers and garlic. It is important to test the mixture in a small area of the garden first and to reapply it after watering or a rain shower.
Make the mixture by combining 1 onion, 3 to 4 jalapeno peppers, 2 cloves of garlic and 2 tbsp. of dish soap in a blender until liquefied. Stir the blended mixture into a ½ gal. of water and pour it into spray bottle.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum contains the chemical pyrethrum, which is toxic to an insect's nervous system, making it an effective organic pesticide. Plant chrysanthemums near your herb garden or create an organic pesticide that can be sprayed directly on your herbs.
You can make the spray by boiling water with fresh or dried chrysanthemum petals, then strain and pour the water into spray bottle. Be sure to test a small area before using it throughout your herb garden, and reapply after rain showers or watering.
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