In the summer of 2019 I declared an all-out war against the Japanese Beetle. An infestation of beetles was destroying my family’s plants and orchard: the cherry trees were stunted and the grapevines were gasping for life.
We first tried commercial pesticides, but we learned that most contain chemicals, including neonicotinoid – a dangerous bee killer. And broad-spectrum insecticides harm everything: bees, butterflies, and us. Plus, these products do not repel pests, and they wash off in rain.
And so I went to battle.
I set up a lab in our garage and began testing beetles. I tried natural substances that I researched, and I observed how many beetles died and which substances repelled them. Finally I discovered an ideal combination of natural substances to repel and kill Japanese Beetles.
My work won the championship trophy for Entomology at the Kendall County 4-H Fair. Then I presented my research at the Illinois 4-H State Fair, where I won the championship and an INSPIRE award.
Suddenly, all my friends and neighbors wanted to buy my formula
I entered the Celebrating High School Innovators contest and won the seed money to start my business. And then I started to make my formula to sell.
My TerraBuster spray is 100% natural, effective, and rain resistant. Mist leaves to create a barrier that repels beetles, aphids, mites, and caterpillars. There is nothing toxic, just plant oils and amino acids that target the Japanese Beetle. And don’t worry if you spray yourself – it’s safe and natural!
If you have any questions about my research and products, please contact me and I’ll reply as soon as possible.
Thanks,
Matias
