If it’s not slugs, it’s aphids, apparently. The little buggers have arrived and are determined to shrivel up all the new growth on my Clematis jackmanii. It being in its third year (third year leap – check!) there is a lot of new growth at stake.
I’ve always used a two-pronged approach to deal with aphids. I plant nasturtiums as a decoy (I call them sacrificial nasturtiums) because aphids go for them and leave my basil and other tender morsels alone. Second, I use a dishwashing liquid-and-water solution to deal with the aphids that do go after my prized plants (never had enough of a problem to buy lady bugs). It seems to work alright, but I came across this recipe in the Farmer’s Almanac and I think I’ll give it a try:
Organic all-purpose pesticide
In a jar, combine 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid and 1 cup vegetable oil. Shake vigorously. In an empty spray bottle, combine 2 teaspoons of this mixture and 1 cup water. Use at ten-day intervals (or more often if needed) to rid plants of whiteflies, mites, aphids, scales, and other pests.
I’ll be interested to hear your verdict on the recipe.
Dishwashing detergent isn’t too harsh? Aphids are always a problem on my rose bushes. I heard this spring that hand-washing soap (aka Dial) might help.
I’ve never had a problem with dishwashing liquid negatively affecting my plants. You have to dilute it, of course. I use about one teaspoon soap to two cups water in a spray bottle.
i am a retired president of printing corp and a pastor, i am now inereted in organic farming.
i would like to make an organic pesticide. Can you give some and its formulation