Natural ways to fight the infamous potato beetle

The Colorado beetle is one of the most infamous pests in our gardens and even children can recognize it easily thanks to its black and white stripes. Speaking of children, children may actually help to get rid of this potato destroyer and maybe even fun for them. The most efficient way to fight potato beetles is by handpicking. Many people see potato beetle as the main a threat to potatoes and rightly so, but it can also attack other plants in spring. The bug is most harmful when elderberries are in bloom. We all know that getting rid of the potato beetle is not easy.

Chemicals

The most effective way to get rid of potato beetle is to apply special chemical sprays specifically developed to eliminate this pest. There are many manufacturers that offer chemical and ecological options. Use environment friendly options to protect your plants from harmful effects of chemicals and fight the potato beetle at the same time. You should be able to notice improvement after the first use.

Chrysanthemum acid extract

This extract is very effective, but it is also dangerous for humans and animals. So, if you decide to use it, you must handle it with utmost care. Mix 0.5kg/ha of the extract with 6% vinegar and water in a ratio of 2 : 1 : 2. This mixture has a pH below 7. You should know that this mixture degrades at high temperatures so, use it when it is cloudy for example. Carefully spread the mixture on potato plants.

Photo: Pixabay

A scent of certain plants will help

The potato beetle does not like the aroma of certain plants such as horseradish, flax, beans, yellow clover, fern or wormwood. Plant them near potatoes to reduce the likelihood of their occurrence.

Partridges and pheasants

These animals love these tasty bugs. If you have this option, just let them running around in your garden especially among potatoes and they should be a great help.

St. John’s wort

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) works well against potato beetles, but also against aphids or various caterpillars. Tear 300g of St. John’s wort into smaller pieces put them in a container and pour 10 litres of water in and let it sit for at least 24 hours. When done, strain the mixture. You need the extract only, but before use, you need to dilute it with water in 1: 2 ratio. Pour it in a spray bottle and apply.

Nettles

We all know that nettles can sting so, protect your hands with gloves when collecting nettles. You need to collect a fairly large amount – a full 1 kilogram. But if you find a large bunch of nettles, it may not be a problem. Put nettles in a container and pour 10 litres of water in and let it sit for 5 days. The mixture will ferment. When done, strain it and get rid of the plant pieces. Dilute the solution with water before use of 1:10 ratio.

Source:

https://porady.interia.pl/ogrody/news-jak-pozbyc-sie-stonki-ziemniaczanej,nId,4908361
https://pestujme.cz/vyhlaste-msicim-nelitostny-boj-male-brouky-zazene-prirodni-sila-bylin-a-dalsich-rostlin

Preview photo: Pixabay