Brucchi who devour the leaves on the balcony? Discover the natural remedy that protects the entire green space, keeping it healthy and luxuriant, without chemistry.
It is surprising how i caterpillars They can infest balcony plants in a few days, transforming healthy leaves into green skeletons. When you notice the first damage, it is often already too late to save everything. But there is a natural remedy which can really make a difference, if applied constantly.
It is believed that a combination of prevention and timely action is the key to protecting the entire balcony. Better to act immediately, even with something simple. For example, vaporizing a macerate of tomato leaves can remove the first caterpillars before the problem explodes.
The power of the tomato macerate: protects the leaves from the balcony
Leaves eaten here and there, holes in the center like small irregular circles: if the damage is this, the manager is almost always the caterpillar. In these cases, the macerate of tomato leaves It can become an unsuspected ally. The preparation is simple: 40 grams of fresh leaves left in the water for a few hours, then filtered everything and nebble on the leaves.
There is no need to be experts to notice the effect: the caterpillars tend to move away already after a few applications. The strong aroma, a little bitter, is unbearable for them. And even if it may seem like a too “grandmother’s vegetable” solution, it really works. It should be repeated every two or three days, preferably in the evening, when humidity helps absorption and the sun does not risk burning the foliage.
It is not a miraculous treatment, but it is one of those small gestures capable of making the difference. Better to start as soon as you notice the first signs: a bit like stopping a fire with a glass of water, if you do it at the right time.
Bacillus Thuringiensis and Neem oil: organic allies against caterpillars
When the lighter methods are no longer enough, it is better to focus on tested biological remedies. Among these, the Bacillus thuringiensisa bacterium that seems made on purpose for the caterpillars: it affects only them, leaving bees, butterflies and ladybugs undisturbed. It is found in the agricultural consortia, powder or liquid. Just dilute it in the water, following the indicated doses, and spray it at sunset, when the caterpillars are more active.
Another natural ally is theNeem oil. Derived from a tropical tree, it is more subtle: he does not kill immediately, but he sends the appetite of the caterpillars on tilt and blocks its growth. Using it is simple: it dilutes into the water and sprayed on the leaves, perhaps alternating it with the Bacillus so as not to get used to the parasites.
It is always advisable to test the treatments on a small part of the plant and observe the reaction. The effect is not immediate, but in a few days there is a visible reduction of the damage. And little by little, the entire balcony returns to breathe.
DIY remedies: garlic, pepper, absinthe … perfumes that remove
Those who do not want to immediately resort to specific products can focus on natural, quick and easily available solutions. Strong perfumes, often considered unpleasant, prove to be precious allies. Just browse in the kitchen to find the right ingredients.
- Garlic infusion: some chopped cloves, boiled for a few minutes and left to cool before spraying. The smell is intense and the caterpillars willingly avoid it.
- Decotto of chilli pepper and Marseille soap: Not only does he go away, but makes the leaves less attractive. And then he prepares himself in a moment.
- Macerato of black pepper and garlic: you need a little patience to let it macerate well, but it is among the most effective, especially against the larvae already present.
- Macerato of absinthe: bitter and penetrating perfume, it is especially useful on more robust plants. Not to be used too often.
These remedies act more for deterrence than by elimination, and it is right here: prevent the infestation from taking hold. Better to start when the first holes appear, without waiting for the disaster.
Vegetable diversity and useful insects: the balcony as an ecosystem
It is not enough to react. It also needs to prevent. A balcony rich in different plants Create a less favorable environment for parasites. Mint, basil, calendula and nasturzio are excellent companions: they decorate and protect. Some attract friends insects such as parasitic wasps or ladybugs, which feed on harmful larvae.
In addition, it can be experienced with the so -called “trap plants”, more welcome to caterpillars, to be used as a diversion. Thus the most precious crops are saved without having to act continuously.
Spring soap: delicate but powerful help
Finally, the Potassico soft soapalso known as potassium soap, is excellent for intervening on more evident infestations. Diluted in the water, it acts by contact by damaging the caterpillar cuticle. It is not toxic and can also be used on vegetables and aromatic plants.
Attention only not to use it in the hottest hours or on already stressed plants. Always test on a leaf before treating the whole balcony.
The key is the costanza. An intervention today, one in three days, another after a week. Foglia after leaf, the balcony defends itself, strengthens and returns luxuriantly. It only serves patience and a pinch of trust in nature.
Photo © Stock.adobe
FOLLOW CASTLI NEWS ON
