Easy IPM Routine That Works

I want to begin the blog segments with this topic because it was the first problem I encountered as a new grower and IPM (Integrated Pest Management) is one of the most important things you will do for your cannabis plants. If you do not have a plan for combating pests you are inviting them in. We'll talk more in-depth about all the steps needed for a complete IPM strategy in Discord, but for now let's get rid of those bugs... fast.

I spray the following mixture once/week to kill soft-bodied insects (aphids, thrips, mites, etc.) and keep them away from my cannabis plants. I don’t recommend spraying your plants after week 2 of flower. DO NOT use neem oil on outdoor gardens! It kills other soft-bodied insects, like bees and butterflies, that are in danger of extinction.

Mix Soap and Water:

Oil and water don’t mix so you will need an emulsifier. Mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap per 1 gallon of (warm) water. Diluted liquid soap works as a homemade garden pesticide. It kills aphids and other soft bugs.

Add Neem Oil:

Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of neem oil and mix it well.

Turn your lights down or off for at least 4 hours:

It’s best to spray right before lights out. If you spray your plants under the hot light, the oil and water droplets will burn your leaves.

Spray:

Spray the bottoms of all leaves, stems, and then tops. Make sure they are soaked. Don’t worry about your soil, this won’t hurt it.

To get rid of an infestation:

I use an organic pest treatment like Lost Coast Plant Therapy 3x/week for 1 week, then 2x/week for 1 week and then I go back to using my own mixture.

Tips:

• Avoid spraying new seedlings with neem or they could burn too.

• Make small batches and use up the spray within a week.

• Bugs hate peppermint too. Use a peppermint liquid soap as your emulsifier, or add a few drops of peppermint essential oil.

• Buy sticky yellow paper and place it in your garden to get rid of fungus gnats.

Thank you for following my content. If you have any questions about growing message me on any of my channels. I'd love to help.