I'm not sure how many of you battle the dreaded Lily Beetle, but I have and it wasn't fun. I just found this recipe online - not sure if it works, but I thought it was worth sharing. 1 Litre of water 1 tablespoon of Listerine 1 teaspoon dish soap Start early and as often as needed. If anyone has tried it, please let us know if it works!
I've never tried it but would be more than willing if Red Lily Beetles invade here again. The last time I was out three or four times a day picking off the adults and the poo covered larvae - not in the least bit pleasant!! So far there's been no signs of them again but I'll keep the recipe handy just in case.
Hi Netty, Thanks for that. This year my lilies are not plagued by the RLB, but they sure have been in past years! I plan on keeping that recipe on hand.
I've never seen or heard of one and had to look it up so if they appear on my lilies I'll at least have an idea of what they are. Thanks for the information.
Never tried that one but I have tried and used SALT as a natural pest killer - try mixing 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of water and spread on the pests ....see other tips below .... Newspapers makes excellent mulch Lay sheets of newspaper over soil and then cover with mulch – helps retain moisture and suffocate weeds. Tea is natural plant food Sprinkle new or used tea leaves around your plants and cover with mulch – when you water nutrients form the tea will release into the soil. Aluminium foil deters insects By mixing strips of aluminium foil with mulch will keep bugs away. The light will also reflect light back on the plants to help growth. Salt is a natural pest killer It kills snails and slugs when sprinkled on them. It also kills weeds on patios or paths – simply mix 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of water and sprinkle it on the weeds Go get'em GPA Weblink removed by moderator. Please see Signature Rules http://www.gardenstew.com/threads/signature-rules.4111/