The Amish don't buy pesticides. They have other methods, tested by generations.
Soap Spray
1 tablespoon household soap per liter of water. Spray plants. Soap destroys the waxy coating on aphids, whiteflies, spider mites — they dehydrate.
Garlic Infusion
Crush 5 cloves, cover with 1 liter water, steep 24 hours, strain. Spray. Repels most insects. Add a drop of soap for adhesion.
Diatomaceous Earth
Powder from fossilized algae. Sprinkle around plants. Microscopic sharp particles damage insect exoskeletons — they dehydrate. Safe for humans and animals.
Attracting Predators
Plant dill, parsley, yarrow — attract ladybugs (eat aphids). Birdhouses — chickadees eat thousands of caterpillars per season. Toads — a garden's best friend (eat slugs).
Hand Picking
The Amish pick Colorado beetles by hand into soapy water. Slow, but 100% effective. Children help — it's part of their education.