Organic sprays

If you need to, use organic sprays. Try making your own using items from your kitchen.

Garlic spray

To deter sucking insects such as mealy bugs, aphids, scale insects and shield bugs: Crush 10-12 cloves garlic, place in a bowl and then add 2 cups boiling water. Steep overnight then strain into another bowl and add 1 cup cooking oil. Pour into a spray bottle and apply every few days or as needed. Don’t forget to spray the underside of leaves.

Oil spray

To deter bugs such as aphids and whitefly: Mix 1 tablespoon dishwashing liquid with 1 cup cooking oil – dilute with water at a ratio of 8 teaspoons oil mixture to 1 litre water. Spray on once a week or as needed.