Biological Pest Control
Pest Control
Pest control in the yard and garden seems to be a never-ending battle—especially for those of us in warm, humid climates such as we have in Central Texas. Before breaking out the heavy-duty synthetic chemicals that have the potential of killing more than the targeted pests, as well as impacting the well-being of your family and pets, consider using biological controls.
The following table contains a listing of organic products, predators & some parasites used in the control of garden pests.
|
PRODUCT |
INSECTS CONTROLLED |
REMARKS |
|
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) variety kurstaki |
Most caterpillars, loopers, hornworms and bagworms. |
This product is sold under many trade names including DiPel, Javelin, M-Peril and Thuricide. Bt usually works well but its results are not quickly observable; caterpillars get sick the first day and die later. |
|
Bacillus thuringiensis variety israelensis |
This strain of Bt is effective against fly larvae such as those of mosquitoes and fungus gnats. |
Sold under many trade names including Bactimos and Gnatrol. |
|
Bacillus thuringiensis variety san diego |
This new strain of Bt is effective against coleopterous (beetle) larvae. |
M-One, M-Track, Foil, Novodor are common trade names of Bt var. kurstaki |
|
Insecticidal soap |
Works well on soft-bodied insects, particularly aphids, mites and mealybugs. |
This product, a fatty acid soap, is available under many trade names; Safer Soap and M-Pede are two common ones. |
|
Rotenone |
Many garden insect pests including Colorado potato beetles, flea beetles, aphids, weevils, and Mexican bean beetles. |
Usually sold as a dust, but some formulations can be mixed in water. |
|
Pyrethrin |
A broad spectrum insecticide, works on a wide variety of insects. |
Usually sold mixed with other botanical insecticides such as rotenone. |
|
Sabadilla |
Stink bugs, cucumber beetles, caterpillars, loopers, leafhoppers and thrips. |
Sabadilla is a product from the seed of a plant related to lillies. |
|
Pyrethrum/diatomaceous earth |
Many insects including white flies, aphids, caterpillars, fly maggots and fire ants. |
See label for precautions. |
|
BENEFICIAL ORGANISMS |
INSECTS ATTACKED |
REMARKS |
|
Lady beetles |
Aphids and other soft-bodied insects. |
Lady beetles may leave the garden to find other prey. |
|
Lacewings |
Aphids, scales, mealybugs and other soft-bodied insects. |
Immature lacewings are called aphidlions. Most are Chrysoperla spp. |
|
Predatory mites |
Mostly spider mites. |
Release approximately 2 per square foot. Phytoseiulus persimilus will work in most situations. |
|
Predatory nematodes |
Many ground dwelling and boring insect pests. |
These nematodes will actively seek host prey and do not harm plants or humans. |
|
Parasitic wasps |
Many insect pests on the foliage including caterpillars and whiteflies. |
Trichogramma wasps work well on many caterpillars. Encarsia formosa works on whiteflies |
