How to Use Black Walnuts As a Natural Insecticide

How to Use Black Walnuts As a Natural Insecticide
Getting rid of insect pests can be a challenge for people who want to avoid using toxic chemicals that are harmful to the home and the environment. But you can make your own nontoxic insecticide by breaking open some black walnut shells; this releases the organic compound juglone, a natural insecticide found in black walnuts.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • black walnuts hammer or some other way to break open the shells
  • black walnuts
  • hammer or some other way to break open the shells
Step 1
Pick up black walnuts that have fallen on the ground. Wear disposable gloves or some other sort of hand protection when doing this because black walnuts still in their shells can stain the hands.
Step 2
Break the shells. Black walnuts can be difficult to crack. You might need pliers or a hammer to crack them open.
Step 3
Once the nut has been removed from the shell, break the shells into pieces that are slightly larger than crumbs.
Step 4
Spread the crushed shells on the ground where you are having problems with insects. Keep them away from plants because the juglone can be toxic to certain plants.
Step 5
If using indoors, place the crushed shells in a sack with holes so they won't stain surfaces. Keep the sack beyond the reach of kids and pets so it won't be torn up or accidentally ingested.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

Write for Trails.com
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