Homemade Organic White Oil: A Simple, Natural Garden Insecticide
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White oil is a simple and inexpensive insecticide that has been used for nearly two centuries. It’s effective against aphids, scale insects, whiteflies, citrus leaf miners, mites, and caterpillars—common pests that attack roses, tomatoes, citrus trees, and many other fruit trees.
Most commercial white-oil sprays sold today are petroleum-based. They work well, but they can be costly, and many gardeners prefer to avoid synthetic chemicals in their home gardens. Traditional white oil, however, was always made from plant-based oils. If it has worked for over 200 years, there’s no reason it won’t work just as well today.
Below is a simple recipe to help you create your own organic white-oil spray using natural ingredients you likely already have at home.
How to Make Organic White Oil
Ingredients
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1 teaspoon (5 ml) vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon (5 ml) organic dishwashing liquid
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A wide-mouthed jar
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A plastic spray bottle
Instructions
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Pour the vegetable oil and dishwashing liquid into the jar.
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Stir with a small spoon until the mixture turns white.
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This is your white-oil concentrate.
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When you’re ready to use it, dilute the concentrate with water.
How to Use
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Add 10 ml of the concentrate per 1 litre of water.
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Pour the diluted mixture into a spray bottle.
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Shake well before spraying.
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Store the remaining concentrate in a cool, dry place.
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Shelf life: about three months.
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Usage Tips and Precautions
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Apply during mild weather.
Avoid spraying when temperatures reach 30°C or higher, as the oil can block the leaf pores and cause damage. -
Morning or late afternoon is the best time to spray.
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Do not use on hairy or very soft-leaved plants, as the oil may burn the foliage.
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Be sure to spray both sides of the leaves, as well as branches and bark, to target hiding pests effectively.
Using organic white oil is an easy and eco-friendly way to protect your garden. With just a couple of household ingredients, you can create a powerful natural insecticide that helps keep your plants healthy—without relying on harsh chemicals.