White Oil for Plants

White oil for plants, also known as horticultural oil or dormant oil, is an insecticide commonly used in gardening to control pests like aphids, mites, scales, and whiteflies. It’s made from a mixture of mineral oil or vegetable oil and water, sometimes with an emulsifying agent to help it blend. When applied to plants, it coats the insects’ bodies, suffocating them by blocking their breathing pores.

How to Use White Oil for Plants :

1. Dilution: White oil is usually diluted before use, with a typical ratio of about 2-3 tablespoons of oil per 1 liter of water.
2. Application: Spray the mixture evenly over the plant, making sure to cover both the tops and undersides of the leaves.
3. When to Apply:
   • Dormant Phase: During winter when plants are dormant, white oil can be applied to kill overwintering insect eggs.
   • Growing Season: It can also be used during the growing season, but avoid using it during hot weather, as it may cause leaf burn.
4. Frequency: Apply once every 7-14 days if dealing with an active infestation. Regular applications may also help prevent pest problems.

White oil is a non-toxic, eco-friendly option for pest control, but it’s important to follow instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects or the plant itself.

When using white oil (horticultural oil) on plants, the dosage or dilution is important to ensure its effectiveness without harming the plants. Here’s a general guide for preparing and applying white oil:

Standard White Oil for Plants:

• Ingredients:
  • 2-3 tablespoons of mineral oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 liter (about 4 cups) of water
  • 1-2 drops of dishwashing soap (as an emulsifier, optional but helpful for mixing oil and water)

Dilution Guidelines:

• Concentration for Active Pests:
  • Mix 2-3 tablespoons of white oil with 1 liter of water.
  • This concentration is effective for most pests, such as aphids, mites, and scales.
• Light Application (Maintenance):
  • For a preventive or lighter spray, use 1 tablespoon of white oil per 1 liter of water.

Application white oil for plants Instructions:

1. Mix: Shake or stir the solution well so the oil is properly dispersed in the water.
2. Spray: Apply the diluted oil to the plant, making sure to cover all parts, especially the undersides of leaves where pests often hide.
3. Frequency:
   • For active infestations: Apply every 7-10 days until the pests are under control.
   • For maintenance: Use once every 2-4 weeks to prevent infestations.
4. Weather Conditions: Avoid applying in extremely hot weather (above 30°C or 86°F) or during direct sunlight, as the oil can cause the plant’s leaves to burn.

Special Considerations:

• Dormant vs. Growing Season:
  • White oil is often applied in winter (dormant oil spray) to control overwintering pests.
  • During the growing season, use a more diluted solution and apply during early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler.

Always do a small patch test on a part of the plant before widespread use to ensure the oil doesn’t damage the leaves.