Organic insecticides are not all safe for plants.
Reducing synthetic insecticide use has become a priority with the increasing concern about protecting the environment. Organic insecticides are usually plant based and have less of a damaging impact on the earth. Just because insect sprays are organic, however, does not mean they are completely risk free. Natural pest control products are meant to kill or deter living organisms and need to be handled with care. There are a number of reasons organic insect sprays may kill plants. Does this Spark an idea?
Extreme Spray Doses
Natural pest controls kill both beneficial and harmful insects.
Insect infestations are vexing, but overzealousness does not pay with organic sprays. Doubling the dose is not better when it comes to mixing pest controls. According to New Mexico State University, increasing recommended doses of organic sprays can cause severe plant injuries. In fact, some synthetic products are less toxic than a number of organic insecticides. Follow product directions carefully. Unsafe amounts can leave dangerous residues without getting rid of the pests.
Spraying Plants at Risk
Many organic insecticides need reapplication after rainfall.
Generally, organic controls are not as strong and long lasting as chemical ones. Organic instructions suggest frequent applications over a period of time, especially after rain. Plants that are very young, ill or environmentally stressed may not survive repeated sprays of organic insecticides. Cultural controls, such as crop rotation, companion planting or soil amending are better pest control solutions for vulnerable plants.
Weather Variables
High heat affects organic sprays and plant health.
Most plant-based pest control products easily break down with no harm to the environment. When you spray the foliage can affect the health of the whole plant. The time of day, temperature and weather will affect the strength of organic insecticides. Sunlight, humidity, wind and temperature play a large role in how fast organic products break down on the plant. Do not apply organic pest controls in the heat of the day. Sprayed plants can quickly dry out and die when the thermometer reaches 90 degrees Fahrenheit, or more.
Applying Insecticides on Wrong Plants
Trees may require a different organic insecticide than shrubs.
Organic pest control products are formulated for specific insects and plant types. For example, neem oil extracts are labeled for shrub, trees and some crop use. Homemade insecticidal soaps often burn plants. Commercial soaps are put together and tested for strength and effectiveness on certain pests and foliage. Some plants are highly sensitive to natural oil sprays. Read and follow recommendations for each pest formula before buying to save time, money and the heartache of lost plants.
Tags: pest control, control products, organic insecticides, organic sprays, pest control products