- Pepper plants are vulnerable to damage caused by insect pests such as the European corn borer and the beet armyworm. The European corn borer attacks the fruit, and the beet armyworm feeds on young, developing pepper plants. Other insect pests commonly found on pepper plants include aphids, thrips, pepper weevils and vegetable leafminers.
- Numerous natural botanical pesticides can effectively combat bugs on pepper plants, including neem, pyrethrum, rotenone, ryania and sabadilla. Pesticide sprays containing the microbial Bacillus thuringiensis are used for organic control of beet armyworm larvae. In addition, homemade bug sprays can be made using biodegradable liquid soap, vegetable oil and pureed garlic and onions.
- Note that rotenone is toxic to fish and should not be used near lakes and streams. Always follow pesticide instructions carefully -- just because they are natural, does not mean they cannot be harmful. Wear masks if required, and only use sprays when wind is less than 5 to 10 mph.
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