Best bug spray for shrubs/bushes?

[KitKat2023]

My front landscape has 3 or 4 different types of problems and I've used Sevin spray twice this year. Should I be doing it more? I switched this week to a different brand (BioAdvanced) and I hope it's more effective, but at least this one says to use 3 times in 14 days. It's hard to really keep up with that when we get a lot of rain.

 

[FrancSevin]

Depends on what pests are bothering your plants.
It sounds like you are getting a re-infestation, not a chronic one. Sevin is usually pretty effective but hardly rainproof.

Baking soda and vinegar work on many pests;
You can create an effective homemade bug spray using baking soda and vinegar to repel and kill various pests safely.

Ingredients​

• 1 cup of white distilled vinegar
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

Instructions​

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of white distilled vinegar and 1 cup of water. Slowly add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture. Be cautious, as the baking soda will react with the vinegar and create fizzing. Allow the fizzing to subside before sealing the bottle.
2. Shake Well: Once the fizzing has stopped, shake the bottle gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. Application: Spray the solution directly onto areas where you notice pest activity, such as plants, patios, or entryways. This mixture can help deter pests like ants, cockroaches, and spiders by creating an inhospitable environment for them.
   
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4. Test on Plants: If applying to plants, test the spray on a small area first to ensure that the vinegar does not harm the foliage, as some plants may be sensitive to vinegar.
   
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Effectiveness​

• Baking Soda: Acts as a desiccant, absorbing moisture from pests and leading to dehydration. It is particularly effective against cockroaches and other insects when they come into contact with it.
• Vinegar: The acidity of vinegar can repel many insects and disrupt their ability to survive in treated areas.
  
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Safety Considerations​

This homemade bug spray is safe for humans and pets when used as directed. However, avoid excessive application to protect beneficial insects in your garden, such as bees and ladybugs.
By using this simple recipe, you can effectively manage pest problems in your home and garden without resorting to harsh chemicals.