After juicing a lot of ginger and garlic for personal remedies, the leftover pulp is often discarded. However, these remains are still full of natural compounds that are highly beneficial for plants. Instead of wasting them, they can be repurposed into a natural plant spray that protects against pests and promotes growth. This approach is simple, sustainable, and eco-friendly, turning kitchen waste into a valuable gardening resource.
Preparing the Ginger and Garlic Mixture
The first step is to gather all the leftover ginger and garlic pulp. These fibrous remains contain essential oils, sulfur compounds, and other active ingredients that plants respond to positively. To extract these beneficial compounds, take a clean bottle or jar and fill it with warm water. Avoid using boiling water, as high temperatures can destroy the natural nutrients in the pulp.
Next, add the ginger and garlic leftovers into the water. Close the lid tightly and shake the bottle thoroughly to mix the pulp with the water. Shaking helps release the natural compounds, allowing the water to start absorbing the beneficial properties. This process is the foundation of creating a liquid that can support plant health naturally.
Infusion Process
Once the mixture is well-shaken, let it sit for 24 hours at room temperature. Place it in a shaded area to prevent sunlight from breaking down the active compounds.
During this time, the water gradually absorbs the essential elements from the ginger and garlic pulp. A strong aroma may develop, which is completely normal. It indicates that the infusion is taking place and the natural compounds are being released into the water.
Straining the Liquid
After 24 hours, the next step is to strain the mixture. Using a clean cloth or fine fabric, pour the liquid through it to separate the solids from the infused water.
Squeeze the cloth gently to extract as much liquid as possible. This strained liquid is the main component of the plant spray. The leftover solids can be composted to enrich soil further, ensuring that nothing from the ginger and garlic goes to waste.
Adding Neem Oil
Once the liquid is strained, transfer it into a sprayer bottle. Adding neem oil at this stage enhances the spray’s effectiveness. Neem oil is known for its natural insect-repelling properties and works well alongside the strong aroma of ginger and garlic.
Close the bottle and shake it thoroughly so the oil mixes evenly with the water-based infusion. Since oil and water separate over time, it is important to shake the mixture before each use to ensure uniform application.
Application on Plants
The spray can be applied directly to plant leaves, stems, and surrounding soil. Early morning or late evening is the best time to spray, as sunlight is not intense and the plant surfaces can absorb the liquid more effectively. A light, even mist is sufficient; there is no need to drench the plants.
Regular application, once or twice a week, provides consistent protection against pests while supplying beneficial nutrients to the plants.
Benefits for Pest Control
One of the major advantages of using ginger and garlic remains in plant care is their natural pest-repelling properties. The pungent smell of ginger and garlic deters insects like aphids, mites, and other soft-bodied garden pests.
Neem oil works synergistically with these natural compounds to disrupt pest feeding and breeding cycles. Together, they create a safe and effective pest control solution without relying on chemical insecticides.