Controlling Aphids and Hornworms on Jalapeños: Safe Soap and BT

Introduction

Homemade soap sprays can burn leaves if too concentrated; caterpillars need a different approach.

Proper Insecticidal Soap Recipe

1 tbsp non-concentrated dish soap + 1 tbsp lemon ammonia per gallon water. Concentrated soaps burn foliage.

Identifying Hornworms

Striped caterpillars (~1/8") are likely hornworms. They curl leaves with silk.

Using Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT)

Organic dust (Dipel, MVP) kills caterpillars safely. Apply to foliage.

Conclusion

Use diluted non-concentrated soap for aphids; BT dust for hornworms and other worms.