Guide to Creating White Oil: A Homemade Insecticide Solution
In the world of gardening, maintaining a healthy and pest-free garden can be a challenge. However, a simple and effective solution has been making waves since 2007 – white oil. This homemade insecticide, easy to make and long-lasting, can help protect your plants from soft-bodied pests like aphids and mites.
Heather Rhoades, a graduate from both Cleveland State University and Northern Kentucky University, founded the platform that introduced white oil to the gardening community in 2007 (or 2013, depending on the source). With a recipe as straightforward as the benefits it offers, white oil is a must-try for any gardener.
The recipe for white oil is simple: 1 cup of vegetable or white mineral oil, combined with 1/4 cup of dish soap (without bleach) or Murphy’s oil soap. The white oil concentrate can be stored for about three months, ensuring you always have it on hand when needed.
Upon mixing, the white oil concentrate should turn white, signifying it's ready for use. To dilute it, take about 1 tablespoon per 4 cups of water. This diluted white oil can be stored for another three months in a sealed container or jar.
When it's time to apply, avoid applying white oil to plants on a hot or brightly sunny day to prevent burning. Instead, apply it liberally, especially on the backside of plant leaves where many pests tend to hide or lay eggs. Once diluted, the white oil can be applied using a spray bottle.
White oil works by suffocating the insects when combined. The soap in white oil helps the oil stick to the insects, ensuring maximum effectiveness. However, before using white oil, it's always a good idea to test it on a small portion of the plant first to avoid harming it.
Regular applications of white oil may be necessary to protect plants from pests. While it's a powerful tool, it's also a gentle one, making it a great addition to any gardener's arsenal. So, whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a budding horticulturist, white oil is a solution worth exploring.
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