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Wednesday, July 26, 2023
Botanical pest control: Using hot pepper and lemongrass extracts for pest management
BY JAMES TABABA
The detrimental effects of chemical pesticides are becoming increasingly apparent, so it is essential to explore alternative methods of pest control. Chemical pesticides can contaminate water sources, harm beneficial insects, and have detrimental effects on human health. Botanical pesticides, on the other hand, offer a safer alternative. They are derived from natural sources, pose minimal risk to humans and the environment, and can effectively control a wide range of pests. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extracts.
Hot pepper and lemon grass extracts are highly effective in controlling aphids, thrips, and other sucking insects. These extracts have properties that disrupt the pests' feeding behavior and damage their digestive systems, making them an excellent natural deterrent. When applied as a botanical pesticide, the extracts target not only adult insects but also the larvae and caterpillars.
Materials needed
To create a botanical pesticide using hot pepper and lemon grass extract, you will need 1 kilogram of hot pepper, preferably the variety known as siling labuyo, and 1 kilogram of lemongrass. Additionally, you will require 3 liters of tap water to serve as the base for the pesticide solution. To process the ingredients, you'll need a blender or a mortar and pestle, depending on your preference and availability. Finally, prepare a coco-cloth or flour cloth to strain and separate the liquid extract from any solid particles.
Hot pepper extract preparation
To prepare the hot pepper extract, begin by finely crushing the hot pepper either by pounding or blending it. Once crushed, add 1 liter of tap water to the hot pepper and thoroughly mix the ingredients. Strain the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth to extract the juice while separating any solid particles. It's important not to discard the pounded hot pepper at this stage. Instead, place it back into a container and add another liter of tap water. Repeat the extraction process by straining the mixture once more, and then combine this second extract with the first one obtained earlier.
Hot pepper (Steve Johnson/Unsplash)
Lemon grass extract preparation
To create lemongrass extract for your botanical pesticide, start by taking 1 kilogram of lemon grass stems and finely chop them into pieces approximately 0.2 to 0.5 inches long, ensuring uniformity in size. Next, place the chopped lemongrass in a blender and add 1 liter of water to it. Blend the mixture thoroughly until it reaches a smooth consistency, allowing the beneficial properties of the lemongrass to be extracted. Finally, extract the juice by straining the mixture through a coco-cloth or a flour cloth. This straining process will effectively separate any solid particles, resulting in a clean and pure lemon grass extract.
Lemongrass (CHUTTERSNAP/Unsplash)
Mixing the extracts
Combine the hot pepper extract and lemon grass extract in a container. Ensure that both extracts are present in the desired proportions. Thoroughly mix the two extracts together, making sure they are well blended to create a uniform solution. The resulting mixture is now ready for use and can be applied as a pesticide. However, keep in mind that its effectiveness may diminish over time. To maximize its shelf life, it is recommended to refrigerate the mixture. This will help preserve its potency and ensure its usability for a period of 15 to 30 days.
Dosage and application
To prepare the botanical pesticide solution, add 0.5 liter of the hot pepper and lemon grass mixture to a larger container containing 16-20 liters of water. This dilution ensures proper dispersion and effectiveness of the botanical extracts. For improved adhesion and efficacy, you may consider adding 20 ml of a dishwashing solution to enhance its sticking power. Thoroughly mix the solution to ensure an even distribution of the botanical extracts throughout. Now, equipped with a sprayer, apply the pesticide on both the leaves and soil of the affected plants, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Depending on the severity of the infestation, repeat the application every 3-7 days, maintaining a consistent treatment schedule. For optimal results, it is recommended to apply the pesticide during cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.
Botanical pesticides offer an effective and safe solution for pest control. By utilizing natural extracts from hot pepper and lemon grass, you can protect your plants from harmful insects with minimal risk. The process of making your own botanical pesticide is simple and cost-effective, and the resulting mixture can be stored and used for an extended period. Botanical pesticides contribute to a healthier and more sustainable approach to gardening and agriculture.
For more information and resources related to organic pest control, including this guide, visit the Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Training Institute website.
Philippines stuns New Zealand for first-ever World Cup win
Jul 25, 2023 04:52 PM
AT A GLANCE
The Philippines held its breath as forward Sarina Bolden fired the country’s first-ever goal against New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, July 25, ultimately giving the debutant its maiden win before the 32,357 roaring fans at the Wellington Regional Stadium.
The Philippines held its breath as forward Sarina Bolden fired the country’s first-ever goal against New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, July 25, ultimately giving the debutant its maiden win before the 32,357 roaring fans at the Wellington Regional Stadium.
It came from an Angela Beard free kick into the box before Sara Eggesvik safely crossed the ball to Bolden, who then managed to get past through a crowd of players with a header for the Philippines’ historic first goal in the 24th minute of the match that wasn’t looking in favor of them in the beginning.
Before the Filipinas completed the lone goal of the match, the Ferns were dominating the possession with much aggression for the ball in the first 20 minutes of the game.
And it was Bolden's defining moment that made the sudden difference, and from then on weathered the relentless attacks from the host nation especially in the second half.
Interestingly, like it was always meant to be, Bolden was the one who previously gave the Philippines a 1-nil halftime lead over New Zealand from a similar Eggesvik cross in their first encounter in a friendly match in September last year.
The Ferns, though, came through with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory.
This time, New Zealand's tireless attempts to find the back of the net and past Olivia McDaniel completely went for naught.
In the 57th minute, Hannah Wilkinson, New Zealand's hero in its stunning win over Group A top seed Norway, headed the ball barely over the bar.
The Ferns continued to come around with near chances including a Jacqui Hand attempt in the 64th minute that just went wide to the left.
Three minutes later, Hand found an equalizer off Wilkinson's pass, but the goal was disallowed after a quick review from the referees and was ruled offside.
McDaniel through and through kept a clean sheet until the final whistle.
Popular Filipino impersonator and satirist Willie Nepomuceno passes away, 75
Jul 26, 2023 08:51 AM
AT A GLANCE
'We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much.'
Willie Nepomuceno as former President Joseph Estrada (Images courtesy of Facebook)
Willie Nepomuceno, a popular celebrity known for his impersonations of personalities such as former presidents Ferdinand E. Marcos, Joseph Estrada, Comedy King Dolphy, and others, passed away today, July 26. He was 75.
Willie Nepomuceno as Juan Ponce Enrile
Nepomuceno's demise was announced by his family on social media. The full post:
"To our family, loved ones, and friends,
"It is with deep sadness and heavy heart to announce the passing of our beloved father, WILLIE NEPOMUCENO on July 26, 2023, at the age of 75. He has peacefully joined our creator.
Willie Nepomuceno as Dolphy
"Details of his wake will be announced soon.
"We ask for your continued prayers. Thank you very much."
His family did not say the cause of his death.
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