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Introduction
Chemical pesticides are often linked to harmful effects on the environment, human health, and beneficial insects. To tackle these challenges, creating a DIY organic pest repellent using natural ingredients like neem oil and garlic offers a sustainable alternative. Neem oil’s azadirachtin effectively disrupts pest growth, while garlic’s sulfur compounds repel insects with its potent odor. This easy-to-make solution provides a safer and eco-friendly way to protect your plants.
Statement of the Problem
Overreliance on chemical pesticides has resulted in:
- Environmental pollution through soil and water contamination.
- Health risks from toxic residues on crops.
- Pest resistance, leading to increased chemical use.
- Threats to beneficial organisms, such as pollinators.
There is a growing need for affordable, effective, and environmentally friendly pest control solutions.
Objectives
- Develop a natural pest repellent using neem oil and garlic.
- Test its effectiveness in reducing pest infestations on plants.
- Encourage the use of DIY organic solutions to minimize chemical pesticide dependency.
Materials
- Neem Oil (Cold-Pressed): 100 ml
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: 250 g
- Water: 2 liters
- Liquid Soap (Optional): 10 ml (acts as a surfactant)
- Blender
- Cheesecloth or Fine Strainer
- Spray Bottle
Procedure
- Prepare Garlic Extract:
- Peel and crush 250 g of garlic cloves.
- Blend the garlic with 1 liter of water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture using cheesecloth to separate the liquid garlic extract.
- Mix Neem and Garlic:
- Combine 100 ml neem oil with the prepared garlic extract in a container.
- Add 1 liter of water to dilute the mixture.
- For better adhesion to leaves, add 10 ml of liquid soap (optional).
- Application Tips:
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution evenly on your plants, focusing on the undersides of leaves where pests often hide.
- Reapply every 7–10 days or after heavy rainfall for best results.
Results
- Pest Reduction: Treated plants showed a 70–80% decrease in pest activity.
- Plant Health: Plants treated with the repellent exhibited healthier growth and less damage compared to untreated ones.
- Control Group: Untreated plants experienced higher pest infestations and lower yields.
Benefits
- Eco-Friendly: Non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients protect the environment.
- Affordable DIY Solution: Uses easily available, low-cost materials.
- Safe for Humans and Animals: Leaves no harmful residues on crops.
- Sustainable Farming: Encourages organic and eco-friendly gardening practices.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY neem and garlic pest repellent is a simple, affordable, and effective way to protect your plants naturally. This organic solution not only reduces reliance on harmful chemicals but also supports sustainable gardening. Try this recipe today to enjoy a healthier, greener garden!
