Expert: Sarracenia Northwest - 1/6/2011

Question
QUESTION: You had a video of systemic insecticides up at one time.  You still have the fungicide one on your site.  Where is the insecticide one?  I can't find the link anywhere.

Thanks.

ANSWER: Hi Eugene,

Here's the link:  http://www.youtube.com/user/SarraceniaNorthwest#p/u/5/lbRCdJ8ZNF0

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the link.

First a comment and then a question.

You say in the podcast that you repeatedly get the questions about fungicides and insecticides so why not make them, and possibly others, permanently available with an archive button on the video part of your website.

I've checked out many products in my area like the ones you mention in the two podcasts.  In addition to the main ingredients you talk about there are other active ingredients listed.  What are the issues related to those in terms of use on carnivorous plants?

Thanks.

Answer
Hi Eugene,

I'll pass your idea along to Jacob.  He's the webmaster.

I think you're referring to the Bayer 3 in 1 product.  The two other ingredients in that product are Tau-flauvanate (a miticide) and Tebuconozole (a systemic fungicide).  I've used these on numerous plants, and have found them safe.

Generally speaking, you'll find that Nepenthes and Sarracenia are very tough and can handle most anything regular plants can.  Similar with Venus Flytraps.  Sundews can be a little more sensitive, but I usually spray the crown of a plant, not the whole plant.  That is where pests tend to attack anyway.  Butterworts tend to be the most delicate, so whenever I try a new product I will only do it on one or two plants until I see how it behaves.  Strangely, I've found most chemical insecticides safe, but I'm much more leary of "natural" products.  Also it's important to look for water based products, and to follow the manufacturer's directions.  If you're unsure, test a product on a plant or two before you spray several.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com