Insecticide

What it is:

How its Used:

Insects Managed:

Rotenone

Produced from 4 types of plants from the Leguminosae family.  Main ingredient is a paralyzer.  It inhibits oxygen intake by the insects cells and lasts for several days.  Usually combined with other insecticides.

Powder: Dusting. Strength is between 0.5% and 1%.

Liquid: Strength is usually 0.02% due to heavier density of water.  Often mixed with soap to adhere to leaves.

Bean beetles, Cabbage worms, Coddling moths larvae, and Plum Sawfly.

Not harmful to mammals; however, very toxic to cold blooded animals like fish and frogs.  Do not use near farm ponds or open water.

Pyrethrum

Produced in flowers from plants within the Pyrethrum genus.  It is used in many common insect sprays; on the label it is referred to as Pyrethroids.  Once the pesticide is absorbed into the body of the insect it paralyzes the central nervous system.

Aerosol is the most common form and should be used with caution on sensitive plants.  The spray must be reapplied at least every three days and to the underside of the leaf.

Powder may be mixed with Rotenone.

Liquid may be mixed with Rotenone or Potassium for more coverage.

Almost any soft bodied insects: Cabbage worms, Mealy moths, Rose chafer, house flies, stable flies.

Hard bodied insects are more resistant to the effects of Pyrethrum as it is not easily absorbed.

Nicotine

Can kill insects two ways: contact and if the vapor is taken through the trachea it can cause  central nervous system paralysis. 

Liquid Soap and spreading agents are usually mixed in. Do not allow to absorb through skin.

Dust Nicotin form only. Diluted with gypsum, kaolin or diatomaceous earth.  Do not inhale.

Effective on Aphids, Thrips, Red spider mites, White flies, and Coddling moth larvae. 

Some success on Saw flies and small beetles.