Natural Insect Spray For Plants (A DIY That Really Works!!)
Tired of pesky pests taking over your plants? Check out this amazing all natural insect spray for plants, made with all-natural ingredients like garlic and mint. Easy to make and use, this homemade garden garden spray was tested on badly attacked basil plants & a flowering vine and worked with only 2 applications! Say goodbye to harmful chemicals and hello to a healthier, greener garden.
“SIX Stars!! Oh my goodness…..this is the BEST insect plant spray I have come across!!! I was so tired of grasshoppers (or something) eating and destroying my dwarf cantas! They were still trying to bloom, but they looked awful! Mixed this and sprayed. THREE days later, my cantas have new, shiny, beautiful leaves again!! This stuff is AMAZING!” -Cheryl B.
Welcome to one of my most popular gardening DIYs: how to make a natural insect spray easily from pantry ingredients like garlic and mint – that actually works! Be sure to check out these other resources for more information on this bug repellent:
- A follow-up video showing how to make it, apply it, and how it worked on green beans, too.
- A Frequently Asked Questions page with answers to most questions I’ve gotten, plus reader testimonials about how this has worked in their gardens – both good and bad.
Okay, I’m SO excited to finally share with you the results of a get-rid-of-nasty-garden-bug experiment I’ve been conducting on my poor, bug-eaten basil plants and trumpet vine. I know I’ve teased you with my testing for long enough – we all deal with bugs, so I know you’ll be as happy to see the results as I was!
The background to this experiment is a tale known to many organic gardeners (and maybe even would-be gardeners who gave up when faced with seemingly destroyed plants?):
- Years of either ignoring the issue (and losing plants or living with damaged plants).
- Trying many different remedies from diatomaceous earth (works on many things though tedious to apply, sometimes hard to find, needs a lot of reapplication, may kill good bugs) to soap and water (this never really did much in my garden).
And for some reason, while I don’t have much of a problem beyond cucumber beetles in our large, main garden (and most years I don’t lose plants to them), our herb garden hosts something(s) that have eaten the basil every year since we added it to our backyard.
Because of this I created a spray (adapted from a Keeper of the Home article) to use on the basil, but didn’t really keep track of it (because I wasn’t sure it would work…), although I do remember that it did, in fact, work.
So the following year when our basil was hit particularly hard, as well as some marigolds I planted among the herbs and a trumpet vine growing up the gazebo nearby, I mixed up a batch, wrote it down this time and documented in pictures so if it really did work, I could share it with you.
And you’re not going to believe how well it worked – in fact, as I was putting this together I was thinking I was going to have to add disclaimers on the photos like “I promise these really are the same plants” or something, so you’ll believe me!
DIY Natural Insect Spray For Plants: The Experiment
1. Bug Eaten Basil
So I’m pinky-swearing or whatever you need from me: the three photos in the collage above really, honestly are the same plant from beginning to four weeks later. I know, can you believe it?
And also honestly: even after 20+ years of growing things, seeing stunted, bug-eaten plants like my poor basil makes me want to throw in the towel sometimes. It’s just…ugh. These were three basil plants that I grew from seed, nurturing them along and to see them look like this in just a few weeks after planting out? It’s hard.
And so I sprayed my homemade garlic-mint spray all over that poor plant, but I didn’t really think it was much for this world. It had only one growing tip left, but seriously, look at it (above left) – who would give that guy a chance?
Well, I started seeing results within days – new growth! After a week I still was a bit skeptical – was that old bug-bitten leaves or new?
But by week 2, I knew we had a winner and I snapped a picture before applying one more light spraying and then waiting another 2 weeks.
Look at this beautiful, healthy basil plant!
There’s a bug-bite here and there, but I can live with that (and we organic gardeners do, often, a-hem), but most of the new growth is blemish-free and I’ve started harvesting and making our not-so-secret-ingredient frugal pesto to freeze.
2. Almost Dead Basil
Now, I had to share this with you as well, even though the photos were not taken in great light. The plant on the left, above, was the worst of the three basils – stunted beyond anything I had seen with every growing tip eaten off and the remaining leaves were hard and leathery.
It was so bad I actually did dig it up and was just about to drop it in the compost (which I probably would’ve done if I hadn’t been planning on sharing this with you all, ha!), but at the last minute I planted it in an empty spot out in the main garden, spraying it with the garlic-mint spray.
And while it took longer to rebound, I took the photo on the right just a few days ago, hardly believing what I was seeing.
Is this stuff a miracle worker, or what? I should probably mention, too, that when I applied it the first time, we got a ton of rain the following week and I was sure it wasn’t going to work.
Garden M-I-R-A-C-L-E.
3. Trump Vine Damage
And, you can probably see where this is going (should I have saved all the afters for the end? I was just too excited to share with you!) but here we have a reminder of the trumpet vine damage.
This insect (I still don’t know what – I’ve never seen anything so it must be nocturnal) ate leaves like other bugs, but seemed to zero in on the new growing tips, which is a sure way to kill a plant.
And now the vine is growing like trumpet vines are supposed to (that would be out-of-control, for those not familiar with trumpet vines, ha!), full of lovely leaves and new growing tips.
I think this thing has grown 3 feet in just a couple weeks, that’s how much the insects had stunted it.
All Natural Insect Spray Video (with even more examples)
How to Make A Natural Insect Spray for Plants
So, are you dying to know what is in the spray and how to make it?
It’s super easy and uses easy-to-find (or grow) ingredients – I created it by combining a couple of sources, none of which had a clear ‘recipe’ (I credited one source above) so I’m writing it out for you so you can make it whenever you need it (see recipe card below for exact measurements).
- Use a food processor or blender to grind up fresh mint and a LOT of garlic.
- Transfer the mixture to a large stockpot with 12 cups of water and some cayenne.
- Boil, remove from heat and let sit overnight.
- STRAIN with a fine-mesh strainer into a couple spray bottles or large gallon garden sprayer – add a couple squirts of biodegradable dish soap.
That’s it! Shake well before using and spray all over and under the plant’s leaves one time. See how the plant responds after a week or two and reapply if needed (I only need a couple applications before the plant is strong enough to withstand the bugs).
I’m so happy to share this with you because I think you’re going to love it as much as I do!
Oh, and the mint? It makes this smell good – no yucky concoction here for you to suffer through (Update: some commenters have said the garlic-pepper part did bother them, so when you’re boiling, use adequate ventilation.)
Testimonials and FAQs
Don’t forget to read the Testimonials & FAQ where you’ll find answers to the most common asked questions as well as results from those who’ve used it!
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Natural Insect Spray for Plants Recipe
Tools
- Food Processor
- Large Stockpot
- Strainer
- Spray Bottles
Materials
- 2 whole HEADS garlic, cloves separated and peeled
- 3 cups mint leaves and stems, too – I just throw it all in now
- 2 teaspoons dry cayenne pepper
- 12 cups water
- 2 small squirts of biodegradable dishwashing liquid
Instructions
- Add the garlic and mint to a food processor and pulse for a few seconds.
- Transfer mixture to a large pot and add the cayenne and 12c. water.
- Bring to a boil; remove from heat and let sit overnight.
- Strain into a couple spray bottles (or gallon garden sprayer) and add the two small squirts of dish soap.
- To Use:
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray all the leaves on affected plants, including the undersides – preferably on a cloudy day so as not to burn the plants.
- Wait a few days to see the effect and then apply more if needed (many times I’ve only needed to do one application)
Video
Notes
Thank you Jami for this recipe. I use to try it in my garden because I hate any chemical sparys – it make no sense to have own vegetables and fruits and treat them by chemicals.
Thanks a lot 🙂 and greetings from Poland.
Anna
Does this make the plants/veggies taste like garlic? (Even after you’ve rinsed them) I’ve tried everything to get rid of the role polies that eat my strawberries aside from actually using pesticides but this may work. I get queasy from garlic though.
I only needed to use it 1-2 times the whole season and never noticed a taste, though I didn’t harvest for a few days after applying. I used it on beans, basil, and flowers, but never strawberries, so I don’t know about those, though.
Hi there, I tried to read the thread, but its very long LOL!
Does it matter if you use “peppermint” or “spearmint”?
Thanks, can’t wait to try this:))
Nope, either work, Terri!
Hello!!
Quick question! I dont have biodegradable soap so do ou think regular soap is okay or should I go out and buy some?
I’d really encourage you to buy some, Karen, just so you know exactly what you’re putting on your plants (especially edible plants). 🙂
Thanks for the tips!
I havê a farm in Brasil and now i begin to plant some medicinal planta, i will try tour tip.
I also make a spray without garlic or dish soap (lavender, rosemary, mint) to spray on myself (ankles mostely) before gardening in the early morning. It is quite effective, but does not last. By the time the sun is out and bugs have gone into hiding for the day it is worn off, so no biggy. It smells way better and is not harmful like most bug sprays.
Love this, too, Ali!
I spray this (+ rosemary and lavender) on my hedges. It keeps the tics out of my yard and my dogs can lay in the shade in peace. And I can plant my flower beds (along my hedge row) with out getting the heeby jeebies.
Wow, really, Ali? That’s great to know – so many pet owners we know have problems with tics and the commercial stuff is nasty and expensive! Thanks for sharing this. 🙂
Yep, when I harvest my lavender I save the lower stems with just leaves as well. They get steeped in hot water then put in jars (leaves and all) and in the spare fridge until the next spring. I do the same with mint, there is always more of that than I need. I usually buy some bulk dried rosemary as mine does not yet grow in abundance. When it gets warm out in the spring, I combine it all into different bottles, depending on it’s use, and beat the bugs to the punch. I bought a great little hand pump sprayer at the dollar store for the hedges. I also use it on bean beetles when they show there ugly heads in my veggie patch. It doesn’t eliminate them completely but in does keep them in more managable numbers. Some hot peppers added to the mix is great on hedges and less delicate plants as well. Tea Tree keeps the mosquitoes at bay but smells pretty strong. I use a few drops of that in any standing water to kill of the larvae.
Ali
How do you make the rosemary,mint and lavender spray? Down here in south Texas we have a major problem with Tics!!
Are you using spearmint, or peppermint? The big green leaves most people grow for tea is spearmint, peppermint looks a bit different and definitely smells different…peppermint oil or extract is different from spearmint.
I ask because I have both in my yard, but a lot more of the spearmint.
I don’t think it matters, Michele, as long as it’s a mint that has a lot of scent. I actually grow pots of both spearmint and peppermint and used a combo to get the amount I needed.
hello :), I was wondering if I could leave out the dish soap? would it still be effective?
You can, of course, Stephanie, but if it doesn’t work as well, you’ll know why. 🙂 (I can’t say for sure, since I haven’t made it any other way)
can u use peppermint ??
I used a combo of spearmint and peppermint, Nana – that’s what I have growing, so I think any strong mint will work.
Does it kill ladybugs?
It doesn’t kill the insects, it repels them (I’ve never found dead bugs anywhere), so I don’t think it would hurt them.
I’m glad to hear that this worked on Lilies. My only concern is if it will help keep away the bunnies. I never had a problem with them until last year. I’m going to try it but didn’t know if this would be harmful or even helpful?
Not sure, Melissa – it works on smell, so if they don’t like it, it might keep them away!
I found this link on Pinterest. I’m a newbie when it comes to gardening, but it’s something that I want to be passionate and successful at. I cannot wait to try this, as my tomato leaves are already being munched on. Thanks!
Great, Heather – I’m so glad you’re becoming a gardener. 🙂 Let us know how it works!
Will this spray kill beneficials like lady bugs?
I don’t really think so, Janine, since I’m pretty sure it works by repelling insects – I never found any dead bugs around any of the plants I treated with it.
made this last night and tried it this morning on my basil, the slugs won’t leave them alone! I will update and let you know how it works out!
I made this and am doing a test run on my vegetable garden. Bussel sprouts, tomatoes, kale, broccoli, and red cabbage. I’m going to give it a few days before I spray everything. I did spray the outside of my raised beds hopefully it will help keep the cats out!
Oh, let us know, Karen – especially about the cats. Wouldn’t that be great if the smell repelled them, too? 🙂
I’m going to try your spray on our roses. We have been having problems with aphids and thrips, which causes stunted growth and brown spots on the roses. Also, the roses don’t open all the way. I made a half batch of your spray last night and will use it as the sun goes down today. I read through all the posts and forgive me if I missed seeing something about this, but I am wondering if I have leftover spray, if the spray needs to be refrigerated. I don’t want it becoming rancid. Thanks for your help.
I just leave the spray in the garden shed, Lesley, and it seems to do okay. Though to be honest, I don’t know how rancidity would affect the spray or the plants – and I’ve never seen it grow mold or anything. Maybe it is different depending on climate?
I really like the recipe and plan to try it. I have lots of garlic but have lost my garden mint so I will need to get a new start. Any particular kind of mint? I always try to have chocolate mint. It is my favorite for flavor. Will Spearmint or Peppermint work?
I am offering you another recipe: for an herbicide that I have been experimenting with. Take one cheap gallon bottle of white vinegar, put in about 1/4 cup of orange oil, about a tablespoon or two of Citric Acid (I use out of date Fruit Fresh) and a couple of squirts of liquid dish soap in a spay bottle and spray as young and tender weeds as possible on as hot and sunny day as possible. It works pretty good, sometimes you will have to do it a couple more times. It is none
selective so be careful what you spray.
Thanks, Stephania, I haven’t heard of mixing the vinegar with orange oil before. I’ll have to try that – selectively as you say. 🙂
I don’t think it matters about the type of mint, but I didn’t experiment with them all. I used what I had, which is a mix of peppermint and spearmint.
I am so excited to try this!! earwigs have eaten my crop every year for the past 3 years, they come out at night and demolish my garden! So I am excited to try this!!!
I hope you’ll let us know if it works on the earwigs, Stacey! Since I don’t know exactly what was eating mine, your feedback may help others who know they’ve got earwig problems.
Thank you for sharing this. I’m growing my 1st veggie garden ever.I started most of the veggies from seeds, but I do have a few broccoli, cauliflower and lettuce plants I bought. I have notice a few nibbles here and there on the leaves from something. Do you think this spray is safe for most vegetable plants? I am going to mix a batch of this up tomorrow and give it a try.
It’s perfectly safe for all plants, Marie! However, this early and what you’re describing makes me think it’s slugs or snails eating the leaves and if so, you’d be better off using a safe slug bait like Sluggo or a trap of some sort (a lot of people like beer in a tuna can, buried at soil level – attracts the slugs and then they drown). If you do this and still have damage, then I’d go for this spray. 🙂
Thanks for the info. I will try that. =)