sunfish

Any information on Imidacloprid as systemic for edibles

Richard

Nurseries and farms growing Citrus in an "Asian Citrus Psyllid" zone (nearly all major citrus areas in U.S.) are required by the USDA to treat the plants periodically with Imidacloprid or another systemic on the USDA's list. Consequently, there are only a few locations in the U.S. from which true "Certified Organic" Citrus is produced.

Otherwise, I think Imidacloprid is overkill. When used as a broad-band pesticide it removes both harmful and "good" predatory critters, thus leaving you open to a spider mite attack the following week.

Spectracide "Garden Insect Killer" contains extracts of pyrethrum and sassafras. Grocery stores are permitted to have licensed operators spray their produce with it (professional brand: Evergreen EC) nightly if need be. It is very effective in controlling nuisance insects and does not kill spiders, earthworms, etc.

Cyfluthrin is a minor step up from the above, it is a pyrethroid -- a synthetic version of pyrethrin with the same friendly properties. You will find it sold under the brands:
Bayer Powerforce Multi-Insect Killer
Schultz Insect Killer
Spectracide Triazide Insect Killer

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sunfish

Richard

The author of this article makes his point by espousing fear of the unknown. There are simpler reasons not to use Imidacloprid as a broad-band insecticide -- mainly it is overkill. Ironically the author is in Davis, CA which is home to a fine agricultural and veterinary school. Imidacloprid is the active ingredient in flea drops for most pets and livestock.

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