pest spray

In Mel's book he recommends a solution of boiling cayenne and garlic for and over all pest spray.  Does anyone know how much of each?  Is soap and water just as good?

Confused new sq. ft. gardener... 

Hi Cindy!  Welcome to the party!  You'll find LOTS of good info and nice folks here!

I'd start with straight water.  But, yes, soap and water will be good.  Bugs don't like eating soap.  I'd probably try something like Dr. Broner's or one of the organic soaps.  You can also try coffee grounds around your beds to discourage slugs and in your carrots to drive the Carrot Rust Fly away.

You can also try a chive tea - fresh chives soaked in boiling water for a few moments.  Same with the garlic/cayenne.  You shouldn't need very much.  I'd say 1/2 clove garlic and maybe 1/8 tsp cayenne to 1 gallon water.  Start w/ boiling water, soak overnight.  You can always make it stronger.

Just be careful you don't use something that will kill the beneficial insects - nicotine comes to mind...

I've been doing some research on this.  If you do a Google search, you'll find all sorts of info!

Thanks so much.  That is very helpful since I am a new gardener...

Cindy

Cindy, please keep in mind that all gardens will have all sort of insect life, beneficial and pest. Learn well the insects that are beneficial so that you can keep them in the garden. Each type of pest will have different things that will knock them down. It is often difficult to eliminate the bad and not harm the good guys.

By increasing your knowledge and experience you may be able to find a good balance in your garden.
Good luck

I actually do not see any bugs crawling on my veggies, but my mustard greens have some holes on them.  I do have another problem mushrooms growing in one square of my sweet peas.  I just pulled them out hope that's o.k.