9 Homemade Pesticides for Tulsi Plant

Looking for natural ways to deter the pests away from the Basil plant? These Homemade Pesticides for Tulsi Plant are the best!

Pesticides are chemicals that are used to knock off pests, weeds, fungus, and insects from the plant. There are various types of pesticides available used for controlling a specific target pest. Mostly, basil plant is susceptible to moths, whiteflies, beetles, slugs, and aphids. Since tulsi is considered a sacred plant in India and its leaves are consumed, using chemical pesticides will never be a healthy option. So, here are some DIY natural Homemade Pesticides for Tulsi Plant to keep it free from harmful pests.

Check out our article on how to save a Tulsi Plant from dying here. 

Natural Pesticides for Tulsi Plant

1. Jet of Water

Before using any chemical remedies on plants, try a spray of water technique first. Using a garden hose, give a strong stream of water to the infected plant. Try to exert stream to the underside of leaves where whiteflies, spider mites, and aphids generally dwell. To prevent the fungal infection, practice this during a sunny morning.

2. Soap Spray

The homemade soap spray offers the easiest solution for pest of tulsi plants. Just add 4-5 tablespoons of non-detergent or dish soap with 7-8 mugs of plain water. After mixing properly, fill the solution in a spray bottle. Spray it to the infected parts or on the leaves during the early morning.

3. Neem Spray Insecticide

One of the most common and viable options is neem spray. Neem is an effective deterrent against insects and pests. At the same time, it is biodegradable and non-toxic to pets and birds. The neem oil is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree. You can also purchase it from any garden store and use it as per the instruction given on the label. As a thumb rule, mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1-liter water, and use it as a spray after mixing well. Apply it to the lower and upper surface of the leaves and infected parts.

Tip: You can also add a layer of crushed neem leaves at the base of the plant.

4. Garlic Spray

The pungent aroma of garlic spray is effective in repelling bugs and pests away. Take two bulbs of garlic. Peel the outer layer off and add them in the grinder with 2 cups of water. Keep this solution overnight. Then, strain this mixture. Now, mix 1 teaspoon of mild soap and 1 liter of water. Fill this solution in a spray bottle and spray it on the infected spots.

5. Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a potent repellent that knocks numerous pests effectively. In a grinder, pour 1/2 cup of pepper with 1 cup of water. Make a puree by adding 2 cups of water in the solution and bring it to the boil. Let the puree stand overnight. Strain the solution and extract the liquid. Add 1-liter water and 1 teaspoon of mild soap solution to the filtered pepper liquid. Fill it in the spray bottle and use it on the plant.

6. Banana Peel

One of the easy ways to deter aphids is by using a banana peel. Just take some banana peel and spread it thoroughly at the base of the plant. Apart from knocking aphids away, it will improve the quality of soil by imparting useful nutrients like potassium and phosphorus.

7. Salt Spray

Salt not only repels insects and certain pests, but it also elevates the nutrient absorption capability of the soil. Just mix one tablespoon of salt to 1 liter of water. Sprinkle this solution near the base and infected parts of the plant.

8. Plants as Natural Pest Repellent

There are certain plants like marigold, onion, garlic, and chives that have a sharp smell, which keeps aphids away. So, you can plant them near your tulsi to save it from the need for pesticides.

9. Herbal Spray

The essential oil from eucalyptus, thyme, basil, rosemary, and mint is also useful in keeping certain insects away. You can purchase it from the store and dilute it with water for use. Or, take the crushed leaves, soak them in water overnight. Then, strain it in the morning to use it as a natural pesticide spray.

Bottom Line: Proper care is the first controlling measure to keep plants safe from pests infestation. Keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. And, never keep the soil damp, always let the excess water escape from the container.