Natural pest spray recipes

Many gardeners struggle with the need for a safe pesticide that protects their plants from harmful insects while at the same time avoiding dousing their foliage with toxic chemicals. In fact, sometimes pesticides can cause more damage than good. Is there a way to protect your garden without the extra harm? 
The simple answer is yes. The trick to is to focus on making pesticides that are chemical-free, but actually strong enough to ward away damaging insects. Here, we’ll talk about how you can make your garden pest free without the worry of chemicals. 
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1. Bug juice
If you aren’t squeamish, then this is a great option for a natural pesticide described in an article from Fresh Organic Gardening. Take a look around your garden for bugs, snails, worms or any other creepy crawly thing you can find. Put them all in a blender with a bit of water. Once mixed, put in a bottle and spray your leaves. The insects will not stick around. 
2. Garlic spray
According to an article from Natural Living Ideas, garlic is an excellent solution for your plants. The antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties are what make garlic such a good pesticide. To make garlic spray simple crush up garlic cloves and add water. Let the mixture marinate for at least six hours. Put in a bit of natural dish soap before running the mixture through a strainer. Dilute the strained mixture with a gallon of water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray on the plants once or twice per week. Make a new mixture every week. Note: Avoid spraying edible plants near harvest time as the garlic could influence its taste. Also, be aware that garlic will kill all bugs, even the beneficial ones so spray accordingly. 
3. Peppermint essential oil spray
A blog from My Own Home says that all you need to protect your garden is this simple two-ingredient solution. To make, apply one drop of peppermint essential oil for every four ounces of vinegar. Do not use apple cider vinegar as fruit flies are attracted to the scent. The blog reminds gardeners to spray only around the perimeter of the garden and avoid spraying directly on the plants as the vinegar will kill them. 
4. Red pepper spray
Pioneer Settler offers this handy spray that helps rid your garden of leafhoppers, beetles, loopers, and spittlebugs. To make, mix one tablespoon of red pepper powder, six drops of dish soap and one gallon of water. Store the mixture in a cool, dark area and only spray on plants once per week. 
5.  Milk
To protect your plants from mildew, try using milk. An article from Fresh Organic Gardening indicates that you can use milk to help with a pest problem, but it can also protect plants that are likely to mildew such as peas, cucumbers, and pumpkin leaves. To use, mix equal parts of milk and water. 
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Protecting your plants doesn’t have to involve harmful chemicals. Which natural pesticide do you use? Share with your friends to continue the discussion.