Dormant oil is a nontoxic spray to control sucking and chewing insects in the egg stage before they can do any damage. Use dormant oil on trees, shrubs and evergreens in early spring while they are still dormant, before buds develop. You can buy the spray from any garden supply store or make your own from mineral oil and soap using the following recipe: 1 gallon mineral oil
1 pound oil-based soap
1/2 gallon water
Combine all ingredients, boil, and mix very well. Dilute 1:20 with water and use immediately because the ingredients separate quickly.
Spray on a day when the temperature is above 40 degrees and you are not expecting a freeze for at least 24 hours. Drench the branches of your shrubs and trees thoroughly - it’s impossible to overdo it.
For citrus trees, you should buy a special dormant oil from your garden supply store. Citrus leaves can be damaged by the film that remains on the leaves.
From GardenGuides.com
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July 4th, 2007 at 11:04 am
I needed such a spray for my lawn because it has become full of insects and I was trying to figure it out how to cope with them.Sometimes it’s very hard for me to take care of my lawn but it’s very rewarding to see how everything is growing in front of your eyes.
August 3rd, 2007 at 7:39 pm
Homemade Insecticide…
Most people have never heard of or tried to make it. In nearly all cases, it’s more effective …
March 20th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
My lawn has almost been destroyed by grubs. What is the best aproach to restore (seed) my lawn and what is the best thing for the grubs?
October 29th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Great work.
November 14th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Thats an interesting article - your blog is really good i keep coming back here all the time keep it up!
December 22nd, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Great article,I have added your blog to my favourites I really like it!