malathion drench for roots?
 

Does anyone know if malathion can be safely used as a drench in pots? All of my plants are coming back indoors after having spent the summer outside, and I need to get rid of any uninvited guests. Thanks!

Steve

I've done it to a large group of catts and had no adverse effects.

Malathion is not systemic; so you should be able to drench and kill "whatever" but anything missed will need a re-application in a week or two :)

thats also sprayed on vegestables and fruits...so I think it is safe

Hi Steve!

I have not used Malathion. I used to use Diazinon. Now I am using Triazinon for that very purpose. I started using it a few weeks ago on Phalaenopsis, Vandaceous, and Cattleya plants so far.

Thank you, all, for your responses.

Hi, Ted. I used to use Diazinon also, and it worked pretty well. But now I don't want something with such a long residual effect, which is why I'm considering the Malathion. I've read that it breaks down quickly, so I think I'll give it a shot.

Steve

Steve, it works quite well, but word of warning, it smells bad. And after I did the drench on the medium it would smell bad again every time I watered for a couple of months.

I've found Malathion to be safe on orchids and I've used it as a drench for Cyms, Sarcs and Dens without issue. However, it's not the sort of pesticide I'd want to use without a mask and eye protection and I'd let the plants air thoroughly before bringing them indoors. If you're saying the smell persists for a few months after application, I'd be inclined to opt for a safer chemical for any plants you want to bring inside.

Thank you for the warning, Jonada.

Andrew, I may opt for something less noxious smelling, like an insecticidal soap. The only insects (isopods, actually) in the pots (that have made their presence known) are woodlice. I don't think they're much danger to plants, but when I see them scurrying out of the lycaste and cymbidium pots at night, they give me the (perhaps irrational) feeling that I'm a lousy grower (who's also prone to making bad puns). I think insecticidal soap will take care of them, especially since I don't want to smell malathion over the next six months. Thanks for your advice.

Steve