Three simple and easy-to-make homemade sprays using common household items can effectively deter caterpillars from eating garden plants, according to gardening experts. These natural alternatives offer a safer, environmentally conscious approach to tackling caterpillar infestations without resorting to aggressive chemical treatments.
Box Tree Caterpillars: A Growing Problem in the UK
Box tree caterpillars have become increasingly prevalent across the UK and are widely regarded as Britain's most damaging pest. These creatures can completely strip a hedge or box ball plant within less than seven days, leaving behind distinctive silvery webbing and lifeless foliage. Their activity peaks between April and October.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) notes: "Increasingly common in gardens, box caterpillar can completely defoliate box plants. Though relatively new to Britain, it has spread widely across England - particularly London and surrounding areas - and has reached the rest of the UK and Ireland."
If you notice unusual gaps in your plants' foliage or discover elongated, sluggish insects on the leaves, there is a strong possibility you are facing a caterpillar problem, reports the Express.
Powerful Natural Spray with Chili, Garlic, and Turmeric
The garden and plant specialists at Sai Nursery have devised a highly effective homemade caterpillar deterrent using ingredients likely already sitting in your kitchen cupboard. The experts explain: "For a potent homemade caterpillar deterrent, combine crushed chili, garlic cloves, dishwashing liquid, vegetable oil, and turmeric with water. Let the mixture sit for a while before spraying it generously on both sides of the leaves."
Caterpillars are repelled by garlic's pungent aroma, which contains naturally occurring compounds that these garden pests find disagreeable, while crushed chili possesses substances that irritate soft-bodied insects. Turmeric frequently features in homemade pest control solutions due to its distinctive scent and inherent compounds, while vegetable oil serves to coat leaf surfaces, making it more difficult for caterpillars to grip and consume your plants. The washing-up liquid also assists in weakening caterpillars' hold, while its adhesive properties ensure the homemade concoction clings better to foliage and insects, helping the solution remain effective for longer.
Soapy Spray: A Gardener's Classic
Horticultural firm The Little Veggie Patch Co suggests a straightforward soapy spray as an effective caterpillar deterrent. The specialists explain: "One of the classic sprays in every gardener's toolkit - soapy spray - is great for aphids, whitefly, thrip and caterpillars."
To make this spray, mix 1 tablespoon of biodegradable dishwashing liquid with 1 teaspoon of cooking oil in 1 litre of water. Spray over the foliage of plants, particularly on the underside of leaves where the pests often live. This mixture will keep for 1 month.
Soapy Garlic Spray
Landscaping specialists Maroochy Sand and Gravel advocate for a soapy garlic spray to tackle your caterpillar predicament. To create this natural spray, you will need 500ml of water, a spray bottle, two level tablespoons of garlic powder, and one teaspoon of any washing-up liquid.
To prepare, pour the water into the spray bottle, add the garlic powder, and finally incorporate the washing-up liquid. Secure the lid and shake thoroughly to blend the ingredients. Application method: If you notice foliage with telltale holes, deploy your homemade solution and liberally cover the compromised areas. Similarly, upon discovering active caterpillars, apply the mixture directly onto the rear of each specimen.
The landscaping specialists explain: "Caterpillars don't like the taste and the smell of garlic so this will deter them to go to another place, other than eating your lovely plants."
Expert advice: Should the concoction separate while stored, merely give it a thorough shake before reapplying.
