The colorfully blooming petunias not only attract people's attention on the balcony or in the bed. Whiteflies like to visit the plants in order to multiply in the substrate. Biological means should always be used to rid the petunia of the infestation. Fortunately, there are numerous home remedies that have proven themselves in the fight against the pest.
The beautiful petunias not only attract looks but also whiteflies
Home remedies for whitefly on petunias
- suitable plant partners
- nets
- homemade sprays
- beneficials
Suitable plant partners
Leave the fight against whitefly to nature. It is now clear that some plants drive the pest away simply by emitting their aroma. Take advantage of this effect by planting the following plants near the petunia:
- Pineapple Sage
- basil
- fire bush
- Indian spinach
- lettuce
- Nasturtium
- Indian mint
- Wild Bergamot
- bee balm
- horsemint
- celery
- asparagus
- or thyme
nets
Unfortunately, whitefly infestation is difficult to completely prevent. If a little animal visits your petunia from time to time, there is only a slight danger. However, it becomes problematic when the adult animals lay their eggs in the substrate. You can prevent this by covering your petunia with netting during peak breeding season in warm weather. Make sure there really isn't a hole for the pests to sneak through.
Homemade sprays
A solution made from organic ingredients is easy and inexpensive to make yourself. You certainly have the funds on hand. All you have to do is mix them with water. Are suitable:
- Rapeseed oil (ratio 1:3)
- nettles
- garlic (boil one clove)
- basil
- Curd soap (dissolve 30 g in one liter of water)
When using it, it is important that you spray the undersides of the leaves in particular. The white flies are more frequent here.
beneficials
Get eco-friendly balcony residents. Ichneumon wasps (€22.99) are available from specialist retailers. The beneficial insects feed on the whiteflies without harming your petunia.