Got too much wildlife in your garden? A homemade insecticidal soap spray should ward off the six legged invaders. It damages insect's cell membranes and is pretty effective against a wide range of pests. The best time to spray is during the early morning or late evening when plants are not in direct sunlight. Saturate both the top and underside of leaves, re-applying as necessary. Allow several days between applications. The soap helps the concoction stick to the leaves and also to the insects themselves. And did I mention that your garden will smell wonderful? By the way, this is our master soapmaker's organic garden. Now here's the recipe.
Insecticidal Soap Spray Concentrate
2 C. water
6 hot peppers
12 garlic cloves
1 TBS.
castile liquid soap10-12 drops lemon, orange, cinnamon, vetiver, or eucalyptus essential oils
Place water, garlic, and hot peppers in a blender, blend well, and let stand overnight. The next day, strain the liquid out removing all solid particles. Whatever you do, don't get this stuff in your eyes or on your skin...it burns!!! Discard the solids and carefully pour the strained liquid into a plastic bottle and add the soap. Add 2 TBS concentrate per quart of water to a pump sprayer or spray bottle. Again, be careful not to get the spray in your eyes or on your skin! It can still burn. Store unused concentrate in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.