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Natural Insecticides
7/24/2026By E-Training Group
- Garlic Insecticide
- Garlic acts as a natural insect repellent and also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Recipe: Crush 3 cloves of garlic and mix with 1 litre of water. Leave for several hours or overnight, then strain. Add 1 teaspoon of neutral soap and spray onto affected plants, especially the undersides of leaves where pests often hide.
- Potassium Soap (or Castile Soap) Insecticide
- A gentle and effective option for controlling aphids, mealybugs, mites and other soft-bodied insects.
- Recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid castile soap (or potassium soap) with 1 litre of water. Spray thoroughly over leaves, stems and affected areas. The soap helps break down the insects' outer membranes without harming plants.
- Chilli and Pepper Insecticide
- The heat from chilli and pepper helps repel a variety of garden pests.
- Recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of chilli powder or red pepper with 1 litre of hot water. Allow to steep for several hours, then strain. Add 1 teaspoon of neutral soap and spray on affected plants. The spicy compounds irritate and deter insects.
- Neem Oil Insecticide
- Neem oil is a natural insecticide and fungicide that can help control aphids, whiteflies, mites, mealybugs and other common garden pests.
- Recipe: Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil with 1 litre of water and 1 teaspoon of neutral soap. Spray thoroughly over all plant surfaces, including the undersides of leaves.
- Alcohol Insecticide (Isopropyl Alcohol)
- Useful for controlling pests such as scale insects and mites.
- Recipe: Mix 1 part isopropyl alcohol with 3 parts water. Spray directly onto affected areas or apply with a cotton swab to individual pests. Test on a small section of the plant first to check for sensitivity.