Simple pesticides/recipes
We had a speaker come to our society and speak on orchid pests and diseases and he handed out the recipes for these homemade and inexpensive pesticides so I am passing them along....
1. 70% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
2. Water 4 cups, 1/2 cup isopropyl alcohol, 3 tbsp. Formula 409, Spray and brush critters away with toothbrush. (You may substitute 3 tbsp. Simple Green for the Formula 407).
3. For Mouse Milk in a one-gallon jug, use 1 pint isopropyl alcohol, 2 tbsp. antibacterial soap, 2 tbsp. light vegetable oil and fill with water.
Remember, adult insects lay eggs that hatch in 7 to 10 days, apply pesticide 3 times at 7 day intervals.
4. Roach/ant bait: Melt 1 lb wax, add 12 oz Boric Acid, 1 cup sugar. Let it harden and cut into small squares and place where having problem, can place on media.
Keep all out of reach of children!!! Use caution when trying something new on rare, delicate or seedling orchids. Best to use sprays early in morning, never on sunny days.
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