Pyrethrum daisies (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) are grown to harvest pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that disturbs the nervous systems of common garden pests such as aphids, thrips, whiteflies and caterpillars.
These little daisies are effective in companion planting, and you can harvest the flower heads to make your own pest spray, which is excellent for controlling an outbreak. This insecticide is an instant repellent, and will get rid of your pest problem quicksmart!
Pyrethrum spray works for both indoor and outdoor plants, and can even go on your vegies and fruit trees (just make sure to wait at least 24 hours before picking and eating).
While you can buy pre-made pyrethrum spray from big retailers, making it at home yourself is just as easy and is more natural for your plants.
How to make homemade pyrethrum spray
- 15–20 pyrethrum daisy flowers
- Pestle and mortar
- Cheesecloth
- Dish soap
- Cooking oil
Step 1
To harvest and dry out your daisies, cut and tie in a bundle, and hang somewhere cool and dry for 2 weeks. If you’re in a hurry, pop them in the oven on very low (about 50°C) for about 4 hours.
Step 2
Use a pestle and mortar to coarsely grind the dried flower heads. Mix 1/2 cup of ground flowers with 1 litre of warm water. Stand for 3 hours. Strain through cheesecloth and add 1 teaspoon each of soap (this helps the mixture stick) and cooking oil (this enhances its effectiveness).
Step 3
Spray on foliage indoors or outdoors to control an outbreak.
Is pyrethrum spray toxic?
Pyrethrum isn’t toxic to mammals or birds but can be harmful to fish and aquatic life, so avoid using it near water. It’s also toxic to bees, so spray early in the morning or late in the evening when bees aren’t around as much.
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