Corn flour is used by chefs not only in preparing dishes, but is an excellent tool for combating insect pests, weeds and diseases of garden crops. This method of control is especially good if there are small children in the family, so it is not possible to use insecticides. Corn flour is a natural product, therefore it is a good alternative to chemicals.
What kind of flour is suitable?
Commercial cornmeal has less effect than corn gluten meal. This is what is used to control pests. Gluten is obtained from the processing of corn. The flour itself contains a lot of starch, so its effectiveness is significantly reduced.
Ways to Use Cornmeal (Gluten) in the Garden
Corn flour, that is, gluten, is a good remedy for combating fungal diseases. The fact is that flour stimulates the activity of living organisms that destroy pathogenic microflora. Application of the product to the soil should be done at the rate of 1 kg per 10 m2.
Remember! Moisture is needed to activate gluten, so it is important to spray before it rains!
Corn flour tea against diseases of garden crops
For 10 liters of water you will need 100 ml of flour. It is necessary to mix everything thoroughly, let it brew for an hour, strain and spray the plants.
Weed control
Scientists from the USA have discovered a property of flour that affects the germination of seeds of many weeds, for example, flour reduces the germination of dandelion, shepherd's purse, and gerbil seeds. However, when processing, it should be remembered that the effectiveness of the product applies only to seeds; it does not affect adult plants. With its help, you can reduce the number of weeds in a few years.
Application. The procedure is best carried out in early spring. If you decide to use flour in a flowerbed, then you must first sow the seeds of cultivated plants and only then scatter the flour. You can add gluten to your garden before planting vegetables.
Fighting ants
Insects do not harm plants, but as a result of their vital activity, aphids settle on flowers, which feed on plant sap. To eradicate aphids, you must first get rid of the ants. First you need to find the anthill itself and sprinkle it in a circle with corn gluten. Insects like flour and will eat it with pleasure. But the ant’s body is unable to digest the flour, so the insects die. Cornmeal will help you get rid of ant colonies within a week.
Fighting slugs
It is important to find the location of the slugs and leave a low container with corn flour there. After a hearty lunch, the slugs die.
Adding to compost
Cornmeal is also good because it is used to make compost. At 1 m3 you will need 500 g of corn flour. The miracle product helps beneficial microbes multiply, which in turn accelerates the maturation of the compost.
Corn gluten gluten is an excellent alternative to chemical herbicides, especially if there are small children and pets in the house.
