Treating Pests on Sundews: Safe Insecticide Choices

Question

Do whiteflies, mealybugs, and aphids eat sundews? My D. spatulata and D. capensis are infested. Can I use a pyrethrin/canola oil insecticide that worked on African violets?

Answer

Sap-sucking insects do attack carnivorous plants. A cotton swab with dew can trap some insects, but it's impractical for large infestations. Pyrethrins are fine, but avoid canola oil—it breaks down into fertilizer derivatives that harm CP roots. Use a 2-in-1 neem oil and pyrethrin mix (water-based). No other oils, soaps, or fatty-acid products. Only neem, water-based, or sulfur-based products are safe.

Christopher