Natural Insecticide
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Natural Insecticide
We have an extensive range of natural insecticides and bug sprays. Includes certified organic products and natural solutions that are less toxic than traditional chemical insecticides. Below, we highlight our most popular natural plant spray options. Please see the very bottom of the page for even more information on this range.
Pyrethrum-based sprays are produced from the dried flowers of Chrysanthemum, which contain natural insecticidal compounds called pyrethrins. They are fast-acting, broad-spectrum insect killers with relatively low toxicity to humans and pets compared to synthetic chemicals. It's often combined with piperonyl butoxide, which enhances its effectiveness by inhibiting insect detoxification enzymes. We recommend Kendon Pyrethrum, which at 13g per litre is over three times as concentrated as most other brands, and offers exceptional value. Richgro Beat-A-Bug also includes garlic and chilli for even more bug-killing potency.
Neem Oil: Neem oil insecticide is a natural, plant-derived pesticide extracted from neem tree seeds. It is effective against insects, mites, and fungal pests, disrupting their growth and reproduction. Safe for beneficial insects like Bees. Eco-Neem is the most well-known and popular neem oil and is certified organic; however, it's also worth considering the Neem Plant Spray Concentrate, which is organic and cold-pressed but offers much better value for money. Neem Oil is currently approved in Australia for use on ornamental plants only. However, internationally, it is approved for use on edible plants with no withholding period, e.g., in New Zealand, Europe, the UK, Japan, and the USA.
Insecticidal Soap: Also known as horticultural soap or insect soap, is a natural pesticide made from potassium salts of fatty acids. It controls soft-bodied insects like aphids, mealybugs, and mites by disrupting their cell membranes, which is safe for plants. Popular brands include Natrasoap and EcoBug. Natrasoap is certified organic, has no withholding period, and has minimal adverse effects on beneficial insects.
Diatomaceous Earth: Is a natural, low-toxicity insecticide made from the fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. Its insecticidal action is physical, not chemical. DE is composed of microscopic, sharp silica particles that dehydrate insects and cause them to die, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
Popular natural plant spray options CONTINUED.
Pest Oil: also known as white oil, is a specially refined mineral or plant-based oil used to control insect pests and some plant diseases. They work by smothering soft-bodied insects such as aphids, scale, mites, and whiteflies, blocking their breathing pores and disrupting their life cycle. Generally low in toxicity, biodegradable, and safe for beneficial insects when used correctly. Traditionally, white oil is made from petroleum oil. However, in this collection, we are only including non-petroleum options, such as botanical oils, paraffin oil, and neem oil, which offer added benefits for plants and the environment compared to petroleum oil. These options are not persistent in the environment and are less likely to burn.
