How To Do Organic Pyrethrum Herbs Farming In India
"This harmless looking flower packs a punch, which is why it has been used for centuries as an insecticide"
Pyrethrum is a type of small daisy that is used to produce a natural insecticide also called pyrethrum, found in garden pesticides used to control aphids and other sap-sucking pests as well as caterpillars. It is also in fly sprays and is a contact spray.
Although pyrethrum is a natural insecticide that's not dangerous to humans or animals and is acceptable to organic gardening, it should be used with caution. As well as killing target pest species such as aphids or caterpillars, it can also kill beneficial insects such as bees.
To avoid accidently killing other insects, apply pyrethrum insecticide in the early evening when bees and other beneficial insects have finished foraging for the day. It breaks down quickly in the environment so should be gone by the time the bees and beneficials return. This plant is grown commercially in Tasmania where it is processed and sold around the world. The insecticide is produced in the flowers, which are harvested in autumn after they have finished.
Pyrethrum grows as a low silvery grey mound around 30cm across and 30-60cm high. The stems with their clusters of white daisy flowers appear above the fine grey leaves in summer. Pyrethrum is also grown as a companion plant to deter insects.
To make your own insecticide, infuse dry pyrethrum flowers in boiling water or cover them in alcohol to dissolve the active ingredient. Keep the infusing material in the dark and leave the flowers to steep for several days. Strain and dilute in water (six parts water to one part pyrethrum extract) before applying to garden plants.
Gradening Tips To Grow Pyrethrum Herbs Organically
- This is a plant that needs lots of sunshine, fresh air and a well-drained soil for good growth. It tolerates mild frost but not heavy frost or cold wet soils.
- It doesn't grow well crowded among other plants. Prune after flowering to remove the spent flower stems.
- Grow pyrethrum from seed planted in spring or look for small plants for sale in the herb section of your local garden centre or hardware store to plant from spring to autumn.
DID YOU KNOW?
Pyrethrin is the active ingredient from pyrethrum but it can also be produced synthetically. Synthetic versions of pyrethrin are called pyrethroids.
Scientific Details Of Pyrethrum Herbs
- Common names: Pyrethrum
- Botanical name: Tanacetum cinerariifolium
- Family: Asteraceae
- Aspect & soil: Full sun; well-drained soil
- Best climate: Subtropics, temperate, Mediterranean, cool
- Habit: Perennial Propagation: Seed, potted plants
- Difficulty: Easy