Systemic Insecticides

The use of systemic insecticides makes it so you don’t have to apply insecticide sprays many times throughout the year. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison explains systemic insecticides.  Systemic insecticides work by having the plant absorb the insecticide through the roots. The chemical then travels through the plant to the stems and leaves and will kill insects that feed on the sap of the plant.

Systemics are very soluble in water to allow them to be taken up by easily by the plants. They are available in liquid and granular form. They should be applied according to label directions around the base of the plant to be treated. Systemics can effectively control insects for up to a year after application. Systemic insecticides should not be used on plants that grow food because the insecticide will be in the food. Common systemic insecticides available to the homeowner (and brand names) include: Imidacloprid (Merit, Bayer Advanced Tree & Shrub), Acephate (Orthene), Dinotefuran (Safari).

Related Videos:
Applying Insecticides to Prevent Squash Vine Borer
Horticultural Oils

Related Resources:
Armored Scale Insects & Control
What is a systemic insecticide?
An Introduction to Integrated Pest Management of Landscapes