Gardeners across the UK are discovering a remarkably simple and effective solution to a common problem: destructive insects on their precious plants. The secret weapon isn't a harsh chemical pesticide, but a humble item found in nearly every medicine cabinet.
The Medicine Cabinet Solution for Your Garden
According to gardening expert Melanie, owner of The Rooted Plant Shop, 70% isopropyl alcohol – commonly known as rubbing alcohol – can swiftly eliminate any bug that has made a home on your garden or indoor plants. This revelation, shared in an Instagram video, offers a potent alternative to commercial pesticides that can harm beneficial insects and the environment.
Melanie explained the straightforward process: "70% alcohol will kill any living bug. Don't let bugs eat your plants. Don't let bugs destroy your plants. Spray it. It'll kill the bug. Let it dry for 4-5 minutes, and that's it. This straight will kill any flying, sitting or crawling bug." She emphasised that there is no need to dilute a 70% solution, though higher concentrations may require adding water to prevent damage to the plant.
How to Apply This Gardening Hack Safely
While the method is powerful, correct application is crucial to protect your plants. After spraying the solution directly onto the pests and affected areas, you should allow it to sit for the recommended 4-5 minutes. Following this, it is vital to rinse the plant thoroughly with clean water. This step prevents potential leaf burn that could occur if the alcohol is left on for too long.
The gardening community has responded with enthusiasm to this tip. Many social media users expressed surprise at the simplicity of tackling insect infestations without resorting to expensive or harmful chemicals. One commenter stated they were immediately heading out to try the method, while another confirmed its long-term success, writing, "I have been using straight-up 70% alcohol for years now. It hasn't killed a plant yet, just the bugs."
Other Natural Pest Control Methods
For those dealing with a variety of pests, several other natural remedies can be effective. For larger insects like caterpillars, slugs, and beetles, manual removal is often the easiest approach. For smaller, persistent bugs, consider these alternatives:
Neem Oil: This natural pesticide works against a wide range of insects. Mix it according to the package directions and spray it on the plant, ensuring you cover all surfaces. Reapply every 7 to 14 days as needed.
Insecticidal Soap: You can purchase this from a garden centre or create a homemade version by mixing a few drops of mild liquid dish soap (not detergent) into a quart of water. Spray it directly onto the affected areas, making sure to coat the undersides of the leaves. Rinse the plant with clean water after a few hours to prevent leaf burn.
Finally, for severely infested plants, a practical step is to prune and dispose of heavily affected leaves or stems. This can immediately reduce the pest population and prevent the problem from spreading to healthier parts of the plant or its neighbours.
