How to Use Insecticide

Using insecticides is a delicate balance. On the one hand, you want to eliminate the pest giving you trouble. On the other hand, you don't want to contaminate your plants or the soil, or kill off other insects that may actually be helpful. Start off gently and try to be patient--you may have to try a few insecticides before you find one that works for you.

Things You'll Need

• Air-tight container

Instructions

1. Get a sample of the sort of pest that is plaguing your plant. If you can find actual insects or eggs on your plant, capture them in a small, sealed container. Otherwise, cut off a diseased or chewed up leaf from the plant and put it in the container.

2. Take the sample into your local garden store to confirm what is chewing up your plant. It should be familiar with the pests native to your area and will help you identify the culprit.

3. Select the mildest pesticide available for treating that particular pest. Organic pesticides usually will not harm pollinators and other helpful bugs, and will decompose on its own into harmless substances. If you can, find one that only treats a few bugs, including the one you are dealing with.

4. Apply the insecticide to a few leaves of the plant or to a single plant if you have many. Observe the plant for a day or two to make sure that the insecticide doesn't cause the leaf to wither.

5. Cover all your plants thoroughly with the insecticide. You should apply the insecticide in the morning or the evening when it is cool and the plants aren't exposed to direct sunlight. Reapply the insecticide daily, or as directed.

6. Try a stronger variety if the first insecticide doesn't work. Repeat Steps 3 to 5 with a different one. You may want to try a different organic insecticide, or to try a synthetic one.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use systemic insecticides on plants you are going to eat. They get absorbed by the plant, making it unfit for consumption.

References

• Insecticides for Home Gardening