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Insecticidal Soap Spray for Fruit Trees

Use this spray to protect your fruit trees and other plants from aphids and other soft bodied insects including mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips.

Equipment

  • 1 Clean spray bottle for application
  • 1 Measuring cup or scale to measure ingredients
  • 1 Tablespoon

Materials

  • 1 tablespoon Liquid soap (castile soap is best)
  • 1 quart Distilled or filtered water (0.94 L)

Instructions

  • Fill the spray bottle with 1 quart (946 ml) ofwater.
  • Measure 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of liquid dishsoap.
  • Add the liquid dish soap to the spray bottle.
  • Close the spray bottle tightly and gently shake to mix the soap and water.

Application

  • Spray the insecticidal soap on one area of the plant only. Wait 24 hours. If there are no adverse effects (wilted or damaged leaves) it’s safe to use on the entire plant or tree.
  • Apply the soap spray in the early morning or late afternoon, when the plants are not in direct sunlight, as the soap can cause leaf burn in intense sunlight or high temperatures.
  • Spray the insecticidal soap on the insects themselves. Aphids often feed on the underside of leaves, so you will need to spray there too.
  • Reapply the insecticidal soap spray every 3 to 6 days or as needed until you get rid of the aphids (and other pests) on your fruit trees!

Notes

While insecticidal soap is generally considered safe for plants, it's important to monitor your plants closely after applying any new solution and discontinue use if you notice any adverse effects.