Reduced hazard pest and disease control

[DavidCampen]

Since my new greenhouse is actually more properly a conservatory - attached to my home and also at times used by my wife and pets, I am interested in using less toxic pesticides and fungicides.

Before I converted this patio into an enclosed conservatory I have had problems with the usual pests - aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, fungus etc. I don't remember ever having a thrips problem but probably have had those too and just didn't notice

So, in anticipation of experiencing the same pest and disease problems in the (mostly) enclosed conservatory I have been expanding my pesticide and fungicide arsenal but trying to stay with the least toxic materials.

I used to use just garden store permethrin/PBO for insecticide and chlorothalonil for fungicide.

Inspired in part by the recent AOS magazine article about Azadiractin I have been researching additional less toxic pesticides. I have found a number of interesting materials that I plan to add to my arsenal.

First there is the Azadiractin that was discussed in the recent Orchids magazine article. I purchased a quart of the Azatrol brand for about $90 from an online hydroponics supply shop. Azadirachtin is a product isolated from Neem oil.

Next I found Spinosad which is a product produced by a soil bacteria. It is OMRI certified for use in organic food production. It can be purchased in garden stores under several brand names as a 0.5% spinosad content liquid for about $25 per quart. It is also avalable in quarts of 11% material under the name Conserve SC for about $150 per quart.

Third, I have purchased a 1/2 gallon jug of pyrethrin/PBO 5%/25%. Pyrethrin is the natural pyrethroid isolated from pyrethrum flowers. There seems to be a shortage of natural pyrethrum but I was able to purchase the 1/2 gallon jug for $105.

I plan to use the above three materials as a cocktail for insect control. I have already made one treatment with just Spinosad and have not seen any adverse affect on my plants.