Aphids are pests that invade gardens and attack plants, causing considerable damage. To fight against these parasites without resorting to harmful chemicals for the environment and health, there are natural and ecological solutions. In this article, you will discover two methods to prepare a natural anti-aphid based on baking soda.
Why use baking soda against aphids?
Baking soda is a natural product with many uses, especially in gardening. It has several interesting properties to prevent and treat aphid infestations:
- It is non-toxic : Unlike chemical pesticides, baking soda is not harmful to human health or the environment. You can therefore use it safely on your vegetable or ornamental plants.
- It acts as a fungicide : Baking soda destroys certain bacteria and fungi that cause disease in plants. In addition to fighting aphids, you will protect your plants against other health problems.
- It changes the pH of the leaf surface : baking soda makes the leaves less attractive to aphids, which prefer a neutral or slightly acidic pH.
Now that you know the benefits of baking soda to fight aphids, let’s see how to prepare two natural treatments based on this product.
1. Anti-aphid spray with baking soda and liquid soap
Ingredients and equipment:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of liquid soap (preferably organic and unscented)
- A spray bottle with a capacity of at least 1 liter
Preparation :
- In a container, mix the baking soda with the water.
- Add the liquid soap and stir well to homogenize the solution.
- Transfer the mixture into the spray bottle using a funnel.
Use :
Spray this solution on the leaves of plants infested with aphids, paying particular attention to the underside of the leaves where the pests often hide. Repeat the operation every other day until the aphids are completely eliminated. Be careful not to use this spray in direct sunlight, as the soap can cause burns on UV-exposed leaves.
2. Anti-aphid treatment with baking soda and oil
Ingredients and equipment:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (sunflower, rapeseed, olive, etc.)
- A spray bottle with a capacity of at least 1 liter
Preparation :
- In a container, mix the baking soda with the water.
- Add the vegetable oil and stir well to emulsify the preparation.
- Transfer the mixture into the spray bottle using a funnel.
Use :
This treatment is particularly effective against woolly aphids, which are covered with a kind of protective cotton. The oil helps to dissolve this barrier and better reach the parasites. Spray the solution on the infested plants, paying particular attention to the underside of the leaves. Repeat the operation every other day until the aphids are completely eliminated.
In conclusion, baking soda is a valuable ally to fight aphids in a natural and ecological way. With these two easy-to-make recipes, you can protect your plants without harming your health or the environment. Do not hesitate to test these treatments and adapt them according to the results obtained.
