Understanding and Selecting Insecticides for Gardeners
Insecticides play a crucial role in managing pests in the garden, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can be difficult. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison breaks down the four major categories of insecticides and discuss important considerations when selecting and using them effectively.
1. Botanical Insecticides:
Botanical insecticides are derived from plants and can offer “natural” pest control. Examples include pyrethrum, made from from chrysanthemums, and neem oil made from the neem tree. While botanicals can be effective and natural they must still be used with caution. Some, like pyrethrum, may pose risks to pollinating insects such as honeybees. Careful application and consideration of environmental impact are important when using botanical insecticides or any other insecticide.
2. Microbial Insecticides:
Microbial insecticides, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), are derived from naturally occurring microorganisms and often target specific pests with minimal harm to non-targeted insects. For example, Bt is very effective against caterpillars, but does not affect pollinators.
3. Inorganic Insecticides:
Inorganic insecticides include oils and soaps that suffocate or disrupt pests' respiratory systems. Examples include horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, and kaolin clay. These products can be effective against a variety of pests, including insect eggs. Proper application and consideration of environmental factors are crucial for their effectiveness, and to avoid any unwanted or unexpected results.
4. Synthetic Insecticides:
Synthetic insecticides are chemically formulated compounds designed to target pests efficiently. Common examples include pyrethroids like permethrin, carbaryl (Sevin), and Malathion. These insecticides often have a longer residual effect but also pose risks to non-target organisms if not used correctly. Reading and following label instructions is essential for safe and effective application.
When selecting an insecticide, you should know how it works (mode of action), target pests, potential impact on beneficial insects, and environmental considerations. Additionally, rotating between different insecticides can help prevent insect resistance.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes a holistic approach to pest control, incorporating various strategies such as cultural practices, biological controls, and judicious use of insecticides. By combining these methods, gardeners can effectively manage pests while minimizing environmental impact and promoting the health of the ecosystem.
Remember, “read and heed” label instructions to ensure the safe and effective use of insecticides. When gardeners understand the different types of insecticides and their appropriate applications, they can make informed decisions to protect their garden plants from pest infestations.
Related Videos:
Applying Insecticides to Prevent Squash Vine Borer
Systemic Insecticides
Related Resources:
Botanical Insecticides
Organic vs. Conventional (Synthetic) Pesticides: Advantages and Disadvantages
1. Botanical Insecticides:
Botanical insecticides are derived from plants and can offer “natural” pest control. Examples include pyrethrum, made from from chrysanthemums, and neem oil made from the neem tree. While botanicals can be effective and natural they must still be used with caution. Some, like pyrethrum, may pose risks to pollinating insects such as honeybees. Careful application and consideration of environmental impact are important when using botanical insecticides or any other insecticide.
2. Microbial Insecticides:
Microbial insecticides, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), are derived from naturally occurring microorganisms and often target specific pests with minimal harm to non-targeted insects. For example, Bt is very effective against caterpillars, but does not affect pollinators.
3. Inorganic Insecticides:
Inorganic insecticides include oils and soaps that suffocate or disrupt pests' respiratory systems. Examples include horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, and kaolin clay. These products can be effective against a variety of pests, including insect eggs. Proper application and consideration of environmental factors are crucial for their effectiveness, and to avoid any unwanted or unexpected results.
4. Synthetic Insecticides:
Synthetic insecticides are chemically formulated compounds designed to target pests efficiently. Common examples include pyrethroids like permethrin, carbaryl (Sevin), and Malathion. These insecticides often have a longer residual effect but also pose risks to non-target organisms if not used correctly. Reading and following label instructions is essential for safe and effective application.
When selecting an insecticide, you should know how it works (mode of action), target pests, potential impact on beneficial insects, and environmental considerations. Additionally, rotating between different insecticides can help prevent insect resistance.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) emphasizes a holistic approach to pest control, incorporating various strategies such as cultural practices, biological controls, and judicious use of insecticides. By combining these methods, gardeners can effectively manage pests while minimizing environmental impact and promoting the health of the ecosystem.
Remember, “read and heed” label instructions to ensure the safe and effective use of insecticides. When gardeners understand the different types of insecticides and their appropriate applications, they can make informed decisions to protect their garden plants from pest infestations.
Related Videos:
Applying Insecticides to Prevent Squash Vine Borer
Systemic Insecticides
Related Resources:
Botanical Insecticides
Organic vs. Conventional (Synthetic) Pesticides: Advantages and Disadvantages