More fat on the fire, BUT why not use ladybugs to control the pests since they eat virtually anything with a soft body or larva?
Also, I have heard of no downsides to using Neem Oil in H2o for a pesticide other than it wont store after it is mixed up. It is my understanding that neem is consumed for food in some parts of the world and the insect repelling characteristics were developed by GOD or NATURE, depending upon your particular belief system, over a long time and I will guarantee that I have more faith in THEM than in any grower.
As to the effect of boiling, much less simmering, the tobacco tea on the nicotine, think about the fact that burning tobacco is a lot hotter than boiling water and the nicotine doesnt break down when someone is smoking it.
I would suggest researching it to be sure, but it seems like 200+ degrees in water for any length of time is very likely to destroy almost any plant born virus because plant viruses have no need to develop the ability to withstand that kind of heat.
Another reason for the soap is that breaking the water surface tension and dissolving oils lets the water drown most air breathing insects.
Also, does anyone know what ED recommends today? Maybe he would have a different recommendation to day. Also, just because you publish a lot does NOT necessarily mean you are either knowledgeable or telling the truth about the subject. No I am NOT accusing Ed of either, just saying finding someone to publish ** doesnt make it any less **. Likewise, truth and knowledge are NOT dependent upon the author having published even one article, much less a lot of them and/or books.
KEEP CRITCALLY THINKING ABOUT EVERY THING YOU SEE, READ AND/OR HEAR! Remember, even Ed and Jorge at one time were no more informed that the first time grower of today. Yes, I very much appreciate the learning and sharing of their knowledge of those that went before, BUT THERE WILL NEVER COME THE DAY THAT ANYONE OF US CAN NOT DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW THAT SETS THE OLD KNOWLEDGE ON ITS HEAD.
PS: When I use upper case letters it is to draw attention to the content, NOT to be shouting or rude.
Don Jones