Organic Garden Insect Control: Homemade Sprays and Beneficial Insects

Natural Pest Management

Control garden pests without chemicals using homemade sprays and by attracting beneficial insects. Always test on a few leaves first—some plants (hairy or waxy leaves) may be damaged. Spray both leaf sides evenly for several days; experiment to find the best formula for your garden.

DIY Insecticide Sprays

Garlic & Cayenne Pepper Spray

Blend 1 garlic clove, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 4 cups water. Let sit hours/overnight, strain through cheesecloth, add 1 tbsp dish soap. Spray tops and undersides of leaves.

Soap Spray

6 tsp dish soap or baby shampoo per gallon of water.

Oil Spray

2 tbsp cooking oil + soap per gallon of water.

Baking Soda Addition (for fungus)

Add 2 tbsp baking soda to oil spray mixture.

Attract Beneficial Insects

• Ladybugs: Spray sugar water (5 oz sugar in 4 cups water) around plants.
• Praying mantises: Buy egg sacs from a garden store to establish a population; they eat live pests.