One of the main problems in the fruit orchard is combating over-wintering insects.  A simple effective homemade solution is to use an oil based pesticide. Oil Fruit Tree Spray Recipe Mix one litre of cooking oil and 200g soft soap. Boil, mix again and bottle. Dilute with 20 parts water before spraying on trees and shrubs The oil smothers insects and their eggs while they shelter in trees and shrubs.  As it is oil based it is long lasting and will not need to be re-applied after every rainy spell. This is particularly good in the fight against overwintering mealy […]