According to a study by the University of Illinois, black cutworms can cause an estimated $21 million in annual losses in the United States alone. These destructive insects are common in agricultural areas and can quickly wreak havoc on crops if left unchecked. But what if I told you that there’s a natural and effective way to get rid of them using essential oils?
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their medicinal and therapeutic properties, and their use in pest control is gaining traction among organic farmers looking for sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. Not only are essential oils safe for the environment, but they are also safe for humans and animals.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of essential oils and how they can be used to combat black cutworms. You’ll learn about the benefits of essential oils, the best types of oils to use, and how to apply these oils to your crops for maximum effectiveness. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to protect your plants from these pesky pests and ensure a bountiful harvest. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let’s learn how to get rid of black cutworms with essential oils.
This Is How To Get Rid Of Black Cutworms
Essential oils like neem, peppermint, and thyme can help to get rid of black cutworms. Dilute the oil and apply to the soil around affected plants. Repeat every 5-7 days for at least 3 weeks.
Effective Essential Oils For Repelling Black Cutworms
Black cutworms are one of the most harmful pests that farmers deal with while growing crops. These pests can cause extensive damage to crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans by cutting them at their base. While there are traditional methods to control these pests, natural and eco-friendly methods such as using essential oils have gained popularity. There is now scientific evidence to support that certain essential oils can repel black cutworms.
Peppermint oil has shown the most evidence when it comes to repelling black cutworms. Its odor is offensive to these pests, ultimately discouraging them from settling on crops. Not only does peppermint oil repel these pests, but it is also beneficial in keeping similar crop-damaging pests at bay. Its natural aspect ensures that it does not contaminate crops, making it a safe option to use.
Lemongrass oil is also known to keep black cutworms from causing damage to crops. This oil does not kill the pest, but only makes them less attracted to the crop. Lemongrass oil has a citrus scent that irritates the pest’s olfactory sense receptors, deterring them from settling on the crop. Due to its natural nature, lemongrass oil does not harm any other insects living on the crop which is beneficial to farmers.
Clove oil is another essential oil that black cutworms find repelling. The oil has a strong spicy scent that makes it difficult for the pest to ‘smell’ their way to the crop. Gardeners have found this essential oil exceptionally useful in keeping black cutworms from tomatoes and peppers. Clove oil inhibits the growth of fungi, viruses, and bacteria which makes this oil ideal to keep harmful microorganisms at bay while keeping black cutworms away from the crop.
In conclusion, these natural essential oil options show very promising scientific evidence when it comes to repelling black cutworms. The natural alternative to traditional methods ensures the safety of the crops and can benefit farmers economically in the long run. By using these essential oils on crops, farmers also reduce their environmental impact, as pesticides can cause contamination of soil and underground water sources. With more studies being carried out, the usage of natural essential oils can likely become the go-to for farmers worldwide.
How To Use Essential Oils Effectively
Black cutworms can be a nuisance when it comes to gardening as they can cause severe damage to crops. Essential oils can be used as a natural way to repel them without using harmful chemicals. However, it is important to use the oils safely and be aware of potential dangers.
One popular method for deploying essential oils as a repellent for black cutworms is by diluting the oils with water and spraying them directly onto the crops. Peppermint, lemon, and eucalyptus are known to be effective against black cutworms. These oils can be preserved for a longer period by mixing them into a bottle of distilled water with long-lasting essential oil dispersant.
It is not recommended to apply essential oils topically on the skin of humans or pets as they can cause skin irritations, rashes or even allergic reactions. When dealing with essential oils, you should always undertake precautions and read instructions carefully. Essential oils should be properly stored in shaded areas, and handled avoiding direct contact with them. If you are living in a household with small children, store oils safely out of reach or locked away completely. Additionally, protective clothing such as gloves and wearing a mask should be worn while mixing oils and while spraying them.
In conclusion, Essential oils can successfully repel black cutworms naturally without using chemicals. Peppermint, lemon and eucalyptus are popular options for combating these pests. Always read and follow directions for use and keep oils away from children and pets if you’re taking these precautions, your garden should be safe and productive. By following the above safety precautions, you can ensure that essential oils not only have a positive effect on garden crops but helps you retain healthy life.
What You Need To Know About Black Cutworms
Black cutworms are one of the biggest threats to gardens and crops. They are primarily found in fields, barnyards, turf and gardens, especially where seedbeds are moist or newly worked. These insects pose a great danger to both gardens and livestock at large. Plowing of these toxic larvae into pastures may kill animals that graze on them.
Black cutworm infestations often begin in early spring, with signs of an infestation being leaf notching on seedlings, slowed growth, wilting, and death. The biggest danger of black cutworms is the damage they cause to young plants. This damage can lead to a reduced harvest and a loss of income for farmers.
If black cutworms infest your garden, they can cause significant destruction. Your ornamental plants and landscaping can be destroyed to a point that they will require replanting. Additionally, black cutworms can enter inside homes causing damage to carpets, beddings, and rugs. They might also short-circuit electrical connections and lead to house fires.
Pets also create a risk. Cutworms can cause rough patches if pet cats or dogs run over pastures infested with them, causing irritation or possibly ingestion that may at times bring death. As we can see, black cutworms are dangerous pests that no farmer or gardener should ignore. Always be on the lookout at the beginning of the growing season for signs of infestation and use appropriate interventions.
Sources:
1. Hori, M. (2003). Repellency of essential oils against the cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Anobiidae). Applied Entomology and Zoology, 38(4), 467–473. https://doi.org/10.1303/aez.2003.467
2. Gharbi, K., & Tay, J. (2022). Fumigant Toxicity of Essential Oils against Frankliniella occidentalis and F. insularis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) as Affected by Polymer Release and Adjuvants. Insects, 13(6), 493. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13060493
3. Publication : USDA ARS. (n.d.-b). https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publication/?seqNo115=227048