What homemade spray works best against mealybugs?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The best homemade insecticide for mealybugs is made from garlic, onion, and cayenne pepper. This natural remedy will inhibit feeding and suffocate insects, all without harsh chemicals. I have used this remedy for years and have saved countless indoor plants. Being properly prepared is guaranteed to yield good results and keep your plants healthy.
Ingredient Preparation
- Mince 1 fresh garlic bulb completely
- Chop 1 medium onion finely
- Measure 1 tsp cayenne powder accurately
Brewing Process
- Combine ingredients with 1 quart water
- Simmer mixture for 20 minutes covered
- Strain solids through cheesecloth carefully
Final Solution
- Add 1 tsp liquid Castile soap
- Cool completely before bottling
- Label container with preparation date
This homemade formula is effective. Allicin in garlic is a natural repellent for insects. At the same time, capsaicin in cayenne pepper disrupts the insect's nervous system. The soap will also dissolve the waxy coating that helps prevent insects from getting dehydrated. Remember to spray thoroughly on all surfaces of the plant every 5 days. Reapply after rainfall for plants that are outside.
Maximize effectiveness with correct application techniques. If you spray in the early morning while insects are active, it's essential to cover the underside of the leaves so they cannot hide from the spray. Do not spray in direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. I alternate this with neem oil to break the pest resistance.
Store the remainder in refrigerated glass containers. The spray remains active for approximately two weeks, so discard it if you detect any odor. Always shake well when using. Test on one leaf before spraying the entire plant. I had sensitivity with my jade plant, and I had to dilute some of my mixtures.
Improve outcomes with companion methods, Interject ladybugs after fungicides. Wipe any visible insects with alcohol pads. Keep the plants' humidity lower. This integrated approach helped me clear my greenhouse faster than chemicals alone ever did.
Watch for signs of recovery in the plants. Reduced honeydew indicates that the treatments are effective. New growth should be free of pests. If white clusters are still present, increase cayenne slightly. Be cautious of overapplication that could harm beneficial insects. It takes time for natural solutions to work, but they will.
Read the full article: How to Treat Mealybugs: 10 Proven Methods
