Homeowners all over are turning to natural and alternative forms of insect control in the garden. One of the most effective and readily available solutions is pyrethrin, which is a plant-derived substance that is safe and highly potent. Making pyrethrin at home is relatively easy. Does this Spark an idea?
Safety and Efficacy of Pyrethrin
Pyrethrin, according to Walter Reeves of "The Lawn and Garden Show With Walter Reeves", is derived from the pyrethrum daisy. Additionally, as Karen Lawson of All About Lawns points out, chrysanthemums are a natural source of the substance. The effect of pyrethrin on insects is swift---generally one spray of the stuff will cause paralysis and death to a pest---so long as the substance actually makes contact with the insect. Because organic gardeners can often feel as though their arsenal is rather weak when fighting insects in the garden, the potency of this substance is quite welcome. Additionally, as the Daily Tribune points out, pyrethrin is considered to be the safest insecticide for use around plants intended for human consumption.
Plant A Row Of Pyrethrum Daisies
Obtaining pyrethrin is simple. You will need to plant some pyrethrum daisies. The seeds should be easily obtained from a local gardening store or mail-order seed company. Specifically, the varietals Chrysanthemum cinaerefolium and Tanacetum cinaerefolium are the most effective for this purpose. Pyrethrin is present so long as the flowers are blooming. At any point during blooming, take pruning shears to remove the flower heads, and then hang them in a cool, dark place to dry. Pyrethrin's potency is best stored in this dried state, so avoid the impulse to make your natural insecticide in bulk and instead take a few dried flowers at a time for use.
Making the Spray
To make your pyrethrin spray, take a few dried flower heads and pulverize them using a mortar and pestle (or similar apparatus). The resulting powder can then be mixed with water and a bit of dish soap. The amount of water will vary because the amount of pyrethrin in the daisies varies; be sure to observe the effectiveness of your spray during the first two or three uses. If insects seem unfazed by the spray, use less water in your next batch. Your mixture should be stored in a sealed container when not in use to prolong the efficacy of the pyrethrin.
Be sure to spray both sides of the vegetation you are treating, because a brief topical squirt of homemade pyrethrin will not reach insects on the underside of leaves.
Tags: flower heads, make your, most effective, take dried, Walter Reeves