What folk remedies can be used to treat cucumbers against spider mites in a greenhouse? - briefly
A neem‑oil spray diluted to about 0.5 % (1 ml per 200 ml water) applied to cucumber leaves effectively reduces spider‑mite infestations. An aqueous garlic extract (one clove per litre) sprayed weekly offers additional control while supporting plant vigor.
What folk remedies can be used to treat cucumbers against spider mites in a greenhouse? - in detail
Folk preparations that control spider‑mite infestations on cucumber plants in greenhouse environments rely on natural substances with acaricidal or repellent properties.
Aqueous neem oil solution – mix 1 ml cold‑pressed neem oil with 1 ml liquid soap (as emulsifier) per litre of water; spray foliage until runoff, repeat every 5–7 days. Neem constituents disrupt mite feeding and reproduction.
Soap‑based spray – dilute 2 % potassium‑based horticultural soap in water; apply to both leaf surfaces, ensuring coverage of undersides where mites congregate. Soap penetrates the protective wax layer, causing desiccation.
Garlic‑pepper decoction – crush 3 cloves garlic and 1 g crushed hot pepper; steep in 1 L warm water for 24 h; strain and add 1 tsp liquid soap; spray every 4 days. Organosulfur compounds and capsaicin act as irritants and feeding deterrents.
Baking‑soda spray – dissolve 2 tbsp sodium bicarbonate in 1 L water, add a few drops of horticultural oil; spray on affected foliage. Alkaline environment interferes with mite cuticle integrity.
Infused rosemary water – steep 20 g fresh rosemary leaves in 1 L boiling water for 30 minutes; cool, add 1 tsp mild soap; apply to plants weekly. Essential oils in rosemary repel mites and reduce egg laying.
All preparations require thorough coverage, especially the abaxial leaf surface. Application in early morning or late afternoon prevents rapid leaf burn from sunlight. Rotate between at least two different remedies to avoid mite adaptation.
Monitor mite populations with a hand lens; discontinue treatment when counts drop below five mites per leaf sample. Maintain greenhouse humidity above 60 % to hinder mite proliferation, and ensure adequate ventilation to reduce leaf wetness that can favor fungal pathogens when oil‑based sprays are used.
Safety considerations: wear gloves and eye protection during preparation; avoid residues on fruit by ceasing applications 7 days before harvest. Store homemade solutions in opaque containers, refrigerated, and discard after 14 days to prevent microbial growth.