Having been an avid gardener for 40 years, I've had my share of battling insects that were
trying to eat my flowers and vegetables. I live out in the country on 20 acres where I tend
to several large gardens.
Generally, dust, such as Sevin, is most effective when applied in a very thin layer. Insects
are more likely to avoid heavy applications of insecticide dusts, and more likely to come
into contact with dust that is applied sparingly. With most dusts, we want the insect to
readily come into contact with the dust. This is true when the dusts are used outdoors in
the garden, or indoors for insects that are a problem in our homes.
Applying a thin layer of dust is more effective at controlling insects and it’s much safer
for the environment. Dust applied in thin layers is also kinder to the beneficial insects and
birds. Birds and beneficial insects such as Bees, Praying Mantises and Lady Beetles
contribute more than all the insecticides combined to protect our vegetable and
ornamental plants from insect damage. It’s also more economical. Another name for this
approach is
Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which is the wisest of all
methods used to control pests that become a problem for gardeners and farmers. Most
important of all, using insecticides sparingly is safer for our children our pets and
ourselves.
When using any insecticide, follow the label instructions, it’s more effective at
controlling the bugs we want to get rid of. By using twice as much or mixing it stronger
than the label directions, can often reduce the effectiveness.
The original metal
Hudson Adjutant Duster
is a favorite of many gardeners. You are able to apply a very thin laer of dust to the top and bottom of leaves.
