At tree can be a great source of food for humans, but pests enjoy their fruits, too. There are some small steps you can take to prevent a few bugs from ruining your trees. However, when the problem is large it’s important to call arborists and tree experts for assistance. Until then, you can try:
Safe and Natural Pesticides
Using safe and natural methods helps rid trees of caterpillars, aphids, ants, bugs, slugs, and snails without posing health risks to people and pets. Organic pesticides do not leave harmful chemical residues on fruits, leaves, and soil. They also are less likely to affect nearby plant life and the water supply.
Harmless and Effective Home-Made Pest Solutions
Non-toxic pest control formulations can kill bugs while maintaining a healthy environment. The following is a list of all-natural and cost-effective bug-busting solutions:
- Neem Oil is considered to be a powerful pesticidal spray used by native peoples for centuries to ward off destructive insects. Here is how to make a homemade neem oil spray:
- Mix ½ ounce of high-quality essential neem oil with ½ teaspoon mild organic liquid soap.
- Stir the mixture well.
- Transfer it into a spray bottle.
- Shake well before using.
- Apply to affected areas.
- Mineral Oil is used to kill harmful insects and bugs by dehydrating them and their eggs. To make a mineral oil mixture:
- Add 10 to 30 millilitres of mineral oil to a litre of water.
- Pour into a spray bottle and shake it well.
- Use whenever you desire.
- Salt Spray is used by gardeners to treat spider mite-infested plants. This type of DIY home pest control is simple to make:
- Pour 1 gallon of warm water into a large container.
- Add 2 tablespoons of Himalayan Crystal Salt.
- Blend well to dissolve the salt.
- Spray on affected crops.
- Tobacco Spray is used to exterminate caterpillars and aphids. Here is how to make your own tobacco spray:
- Prepare 1 cup of freshly picked tobacco leaves and add them to a gallon of water.
- Leave overnight. The colour of the mixture should be light brown after 24 hours.
- Add more water if the liquid turns dark brown.
- Spray the concoction on most plants (except tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers).
Of course, homemade remedies cannot eradicate a huge infestation. When that happens, it’s time to call professional tree experts to help control insects or disease.
Please call Great Northern ReGreenery at (905) 775-7444 to talk to our tree service experts in York Region and Simcoe County. Together, we will protect trees from unwanted pests and maintain their maximum health.