Need non-toxic pest cure!

[BayBreeze]

Hi everybody -

I just joined this board today, and I have a burning question:

What can I use to get rid of mealybugs and scale in my greenhouse that is non-toxic to reptiles and amphibians???

I have a few tree frogs, a toad, praying mantis's (or manti?), and a colony of box turtles that call my 14' x 24' greenhouse home. There are no slugs, ants or flying insects, and very few spiders, but I can't seem to get a handle on the aphids, scale and mealybugs. I would assume that beneficial insects will get eaten, but its worth a shot, if someone can tell me what type to buy and where to get them. Sprays and systemics must be non-toxic to reptiles and amphibians - I'm told that many "pet safe" sprays are safe for warm blooded pets only, but can be lethal to cold blooded critters. And I need enough to treat several hundred to a thousand plants.

Any suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!

[FinnBar]

Hi and Welcome to the board!

Have you ever tried neem oil? it's not toxic but makes the plants taste so awful even pests are repelled.
you could try both spraying the foliage and soaking your pots in a solution of water, neem oil and some liquid dishwashing soap.
some more recipies:
First Rays' Home Remedies

good luck,
Antti

[Des]

I am currently testing Citronella oil . So far it seems to be working ,but I need a few more months before giving it the ok. If that fails i will revert to plan "b" a size 10 army boot !!

[Paul]

The amphibians are understandably the biggest concern. I honestly don't know if neem which is safe for most animals, would be safe for them. Same with dishsoap/detergent. Because amphibians absorb so many things [oxygen, chemicals, etc] through their skin, even these two could conceivably cause issues one way or another.

Parasitic/predatory insects or mites could likely be the best bet. I will try to look around later for you. But in the mean time, if you haven't already, try some Google searches -- mealies+control, mealies+predators, etc. [Can't remember if ladybugs are mealie eaters]

[Dorothy]

I remember this being discussed before
Ah, yes .. check out this past thread - it may have some answers you are looking for
http://www.orchidboard.com/community...t-control.html

[Gin]

Hate to say this ..About the only way I see to get rid of the scale ect. is to unload the green house and treat the plants when the weather is good with a hose end sprayer Neem or Safers several times at weekly intervals . Then catch the campers and scald the greenhouse with super hot water . I would not use any sprays that would come in contact with the critters . Sorry a lot of work .. Gin