How to make a garlic infusion for spider mite? - briefly
Blend several garlic cloves with water and let the mixture steep for 24 hours, then strain and dilute the extract with additional water before use. Apply the diluted infusion to infested foliage until runoff, repeating the treatment weekly while the mites are present.
How to make a garlic infusion for spider mite? - in detail
Garlic infusion is an effective, low‑cost method for suppressing spider mite populations on indoor and outdoor plants. The preparation requires fresh garlic, water, optional surfactant, and a container with a lid.
Ingredients
- 4–5 large cloves of fresh garlic (approximately 15 g)
- 1 L of warm water (about 30 °C)
- 1 tsp of mild liquid soap or horticultural oil (acts as a spreader‑sticker)
Procedure
- Peel garlic cloves and crush them thoroughly to release allicin.
- Place the crushed material in a glass or food‑grade plastic jar.
- Pour warm water over the garlic, seal the container, and let it steep for 24 hours at room temperature.
- After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding solid residues.
- Add the surfactant, stir gently to ensure uniform distribution.
Application guidelines
- Transfer the infusion to a spray bottle.
- Apply to the undersides of leaves and all foliage, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Use early morning or late afternoon to minimize leaf burn.
- Repeat every 5–7 days during peak mite activity, or after heavy rain.
Storage and safety
- Keep the prepared solution in a sealed container, refrigerated, for up to 5 days.
- Discard any infusion that develops foul odor or mold.
- Avoid contact with eyes; wear protective gloves if skin sensitivity is known.
The described method delivers a concentration of roughly 1.5 % garlic extract, sufficient to deter spider mites while remaining safe for most ornamental and vegetable crops. Adjust the number of cloves proportionally for larger volumes or increased pest pressure.