A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion Plant pests and problems natural insecticide

Can anyone suggest any natural insecticides? I am interested in Espoma, but there isn't a dealer in my area (mid-Missouri). I am also interested in home remedies that I can make myself. I am trying to get rid of tiny little white bugs on my outdoor plants. I think I may have caused them myself by mixing old soil with new soil when potting my plants, but they might also just be from nature! Thanks!

Some people use rotenone and purethrin but also consider using beneficial insects. Ladybuds are the most well known beneficial insects. They prey on aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, mites and other soft-bodied insect pests. Green/brown praying manthis are also released to control similar pests. Lacewings usually feed on aphids and, when none is available, on pollen. Then there are spiders, parasitic wasps, etc.

Your first step should be to identify what pest is attacking your plants so you can take appropriate action. I suggest you take a sample of these bugs to a good local nursery or your Ag Extension Service in a tightly sealed transparent plastic bag.

My grandfather soaks rhubarb leaves in hot water, leaves it cool and uses that as a spray on his root vegetables. He says not to use it on anything that is edible and gets contact with the spray. Works wonders on potatoe plants.