How to Make a Natural Bug Killer

Insects can feed on a homeowner's favorite houseplant.

Bugs around the home can be a nuisance, as they pose a threat to houseplants and flowers that a homeowner has invested time and money into. In order to control the annoying creatures without the use of harsh and harmful chemicals, some people have turned to bug killers composed of natural ingredients. While many natural bug killers are available on the market for purchase, with just a few ingredients, you can make your own natural bug killer.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gallon of water
• Pail or bucket
• Horticultural oil
• Neem oil
• Spray bottle
• Yardstick or piece of wood of similar dimensions

Instructions

1. Fill a pail or bucket with 1 gallon of water.

2. Add 2 tbsp. of horticultural oil to the water in bucket. Horticultural oil is composed of natural ingredients and can be purchased online at various organic gardening outlets.

3. Add 1 oz. of Neem oil to the water-and-horticultural-oil mixture. Neem oil is an all-natural insecticide.

4. Mix the ingredients in the bucket together, using the yardstick.

5. Pour the mixture into the spray bottle. The bug killer is now ready to be applied to plants.

Tips & Warnings

• When applying to plants, spray the complete plant and potting medium with the solution. Use a weaker solution for maintaining insect protection.

• Do not mix more than what you will use. Store the mixture in low light at approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit to help maintain longer potency.

References

• Plant-care: Neem Oil Pest Control without Pesticides

Resources

• Comfy Country Creations: Make Your Own Natural Bug Spray