Question
I saw on your Volume I DVD to use Ortho Systemic Insect Killer to control thrips on young pitcher & VFT growth in the spring. I thought I would ask Santa for some to prepare for spring, but can't find that exact product.  Can you recommend something similar?  How about Ortho Rose & Flower Insect Killer (.006% acetamiprid) or Bayer Rose & Flower Insect Killer (.0015% B-cyfluthrin and .0120% imidacloprid)?  Do you need to avoid spraying the growing media when you spray the plant?  How long do I spray once the leaves start growing?  I am in Zone 7.  I prefer Ready-to-Use over Concentrate.  Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Terri,

Both of those products are fine.  Getting the product on the soil is no issue.  In fact, imidacloprid is used as a soil drench in some products since it's systemic.  Be sure to follow label directions.  Here's a link to a more recent podcast we did on insecticides safe for cp:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbRCdJ8ZNF0

Here's an important thing to know about imidacloprid.  It will not kill thrips or spider mites.  Also, avoid using insecticides unless you are seeing an infestation since the little nasties build resistance to the stuff.  It's use in agriculture is why it doesn't work on thrips anymore.

You can still get the active ingredient that was used in Ortho Systemic (Acephate).  You have to order it online as a powder concentrate.  This should be your nuclear option, however, for if you're really having a hard time with a particular pest.  It's pretty nasty stuff.

Good Growing!

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