How to Kill Aphids With Water, Soap & Pepper
Aphids are soft-bodied, pear-shaped pests that eat the sap in leaves and stems, causing the foliage to become dry. As aphids feast on plants, they leave behind a honeydew substance that attracts ants. The honeydew also allows black mold to grow on the plant, which eventually dies. When you notice aphids on a plant, kill them using a homemade solution instead of purchasing chemical insecticides that can harm the environment. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Garlic clove
- Onion
- Food processor
- Bowls
- Cayenne pepper
- Colander
- Cheesecloth
- Spray bottle
Instructions
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1
Puree a garlic clove and small onion in a food processor.
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2
Pour the chopped onion and garlic into a large bowl. Add 1 tsp. of cayenne pepper and 1 qt. of water.
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3
Stir the mixture to combine the insect spray ingredients.
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4
Let the ingredients steep in the water for at least an hour.
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5
Line a colander with cheesecloth. Sit a bowl under the colander to catch the liquid. Strain the mixture through the cheesecloth.
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6
Pour the homemade insecticide into a spray bottle.
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7
Apply the insect spray to all infested parts of the plant. Don't forget about the undersides of leaves.
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8
Store the spray in the refrigerator for up to a week. Spray the solution onto affected plants every other day until you kill the aphids.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Before using the spray, knock aphids off plants with a stream of forceful water.
Wear gloves to protect your hands and keep the spray away from your eyes and nose because it can cause irritation.
