What to Spray on My Tomato Plants for Bugs

Tomato plants are a staple in most gardens, but they are also a prime target for many different types of bugs. In order to protect your tomato plants from pesky critters, it’s important to know what to spray on them. Below are some of the best insecticides to use on tomato plants:

1. Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is derived from the neem tree. It is effective against a wide variety of insects, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To use neem oil on your tomato plants, mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on your plants. Be sure to get both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stems.

2. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another natural insecticide that is effective against a variety of insects, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To use insecticidal soap on your tomato plants, mix one tablespoon of soap with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on your plants. Be sure to get both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stems.

3. Spinosad

Spinosad is a natural insecticide that is derived from a soil bacterium. It is effective against a wide variety of insects, including aphids, fruit flies, and tomato hornworms. To use spinosad on your tomato plants, mix two tablespoons of spinosad with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on your plants. Be sure to get both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stems.

4. Pyrethrum

Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide that is derived from the chrysanthemum flower. It is effective against a wide variety of insects, including aphids, tomato hornworms, and caterpillars. To use pyrethrum on your tomato plants, mix one tablespoon of pyrethrum with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on your plants. Be sure to get both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stems.

5. Bacillus Thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis, also known as Bt, is a natural insecticide that is derived from soil bacteria. It is effective against a wide variety of insects, including tomato hornworms, caterpillars, and cutworms. To use Bt on your tomato plants, mix one tablespoon of Bt with one gallon of water and spray the mixture on your plants. Be sure to get both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stems.

Conclusion

When it comes to protecting your tomato plants from bugs, there are many different insecticides to choose from. However, it’s important to remember that not all insecticides are created equal. While some may be effective against certain bugs, they may not be effective against others. It’s also important to follow the instructions on the label carefully, as some insecticides may be harmful to humans or pets if not used properly. With the right insecticide and a little bit of TLC, you can keep your tomato plants healthy and bug-free all season long!