Question
Our Apt is being tented for drywood termites and they are to use Vikane(sulfuryl fluoride).  They say to remove plants but we have no where safe to put them.  Will they be OK on patio (believe included in tent).  We have a fichus tree, sago palm?, ferns, snake and spider plants, ivy's, and others. Thank you in advance.

Answer
Hi Preston,

I cannot find any information as to whether Vikane is phyto-toxic to the plants you referenced. My guess is that those specific plants have not be tested with this chemical. Because of that, I would not take any chances with any of those plants that you value. The tenting makes the chemical spray that much more concentrated and potentially toxic to the plants listed.

Ficus trees and ferns are unusually sensitive to chemicals so I suspect they will not react well at all.

In addition, if the plants are tented and exposed to direct sunlight, they may be overcome with heat build up.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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