Did you know that baking soda can help protect your flowers from pests and diseases?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is versatile a substance most people know as a baking, cleaning and odor neutralizing agent. However, baking soda is also increasingly being used as a natural pesticide in the garden.
Its use as pesticide it has many advantages, as it is environmentally friendly, safe for people and domestic animals and easy to use.
How does baking soda work as a pesticide?
Baking soda works as a pesticide in several ways. Its alkaline nature can change the pH of the plant surface, creating unfavorable conditions for the growth and reproduction of certain pests and fungi. In addition, it acts as a physical barrier that can prevent insects from moving and feeding.
What pests does baking soda repel?
Baking soda is effective against many types of pests, including:
Mold and fungi
One of the most famous uses of baking soda is against powdery mildew, which attacks many garden plants such as roses, cucumbers and zucchini. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one liter of water and add a few drops of liquid soap. Spray this solution on the affected plants every few days until the mold disappears.
Lice
Aphids are small insects that can cause a lot of damage to garden plants by sucking plant juices and transmitting diseases. A baking soda spray can help repel these pests. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a liter of water and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Spray on affected plants.
Slugs and snail lazars
Baking soda can act as a slug and snail repellent. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda around the plants you want to protect. Be careful not to use too much baking soda, as it can damage plants in large amounts.
Ants
Ants can cause problems in the garden, especially if they create nests near plant roots. Sprinkle some baking soda around the anthills or along the paths they travel. Baking soda will disrupt their communication and drive them away.
Weed
Baking soda can also help control some types of weeds. Its action is based on a change in the pH value of the soil, which can inhibit the growth of weeds. Sprinkle baking soda directly on weeds growing between cracks in the sidewalk or between pavers. Be careful not to sprinkle it too close to your garden plants, as it can harm them too in large quantities.
Spiders and other insects
It is effective in repelling spiders and some other insects. Sprinkle it around the perimeter of the garden or directly in areas where you notice an increased presence of these pests. You can also make a mixture of baking soda and sugar that will attract the ants and then the baking soda will kill them.
For beautiful flowers
Hydrangeas, begonias and pelargoniums will bloom more if you dissolve a little baking soda in water and water them with this water.
Regular spraying with a baking soda solution can help prevent mold growth and pest infestation.
