How do I make a DIY spray to use against pests in my garden?

This is what I found -

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

1. Add the garlic and mint to a food processor and pulse for a few seconds.
2. Transfer mixture to a large pot and add the cayenne and 12c. water.
3. Bring to a boil; remove from heat and let sit overnight.
4. 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 affect and then apply more if needed (many times I’ve only needed to do one application)

NOTES

– This is like a pepper spray, so you should protect your skin and eyes like you would when using any hot peppers, although the potency is less because it only uses dried cayenne.

– Wait a few days to harvest after using so there isn’t any spicy residuals (I only used 2 applications the whole summer, so there never was any taste to the produce).

– This spray works by mainly repelling bugs, though if they rub against it, it can kill them.

– The scent keeps bugs away, but I still had ladybugs and bees, maybe because I only used the spray a few times.

100% pure Neem oil non toxic ,won't burn pets/birds, doesn't kill / repel beneficial insects needed in garden/yard; Nematodes in soil;Lady bugs;Praying Mantis egg cases:Green Lacewing

Neem oil is a great choice to use!!

Hi Cindy,

Neem oil works well after the fact of invading pests. So, next year when you this problem budding again, what I would do and have done for many years is go to Google and look up Companion Plants, it tells you what to plant with your garden selections to naturally repel pests. This really works,

I'll give you and example: we grow tomatoes and to repel natural pests we use Marigolds. Best to you. Look 'em up!