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Introduction:
Chemical pesticides may be effective, but they often come with risks—to the environment, to your garden’s ecosystem, and even to your health. Fortunately, nature provides its own solutions. One of the most effective and eco-friendly ways to keep pests off your plants is with a homemade spray made from ivy and vinegar. This natural repellent is not only safe and biodegradable but also simple and inexpensive to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients:
2 cups of fresh ivy leaves (English ivy works best)
2 cups of water
1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of mild liquid soap (optional, for added adhesion)
Spray bottle (clean and empty)
Directions:
Harvest and Clean the Ivy:
Gather ivy leaves from a healthy, chemical-free plant. Rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and insects.
Boil the Ivy:
Place the leaves in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes. This will extract the natural compounds that repel insects.
Strain the Mixture:
Remove from heat and allow the ivy infusion to cool. Once cool, strain the liquid into a bowl, discarding the leaves.
Add Vinegar and Soap:
Stir in the vinegar and, if using, the teaspoon of mild liquid soap. The soap helps the spray stick to plant surfaces.
Transfer to Spray Bottle:
Pour the mixture into a clean spray bottle. Shake well before each use.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Storage: Store your ivy and vinegar spray in a cool, dark place. It should last up to 2 weeks. Always shake before spraying, as natural ingredients may settle.
Application: Spray directly onto the leaves and stems of plants, preferably in the early morning or late evening to avoid sunburn. Reapply every 5–7 days or after rain.
Variations:
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