Safari systemic

[Ernest]

Charlie, will you be getting any more of the Green Light Tree & Shrub with Safari granules? If not can you recommend another effective systemic?

Thanks,

Erny

[Charlie]

Erny, there's a problem with the supply chain for Safari products for home gardening, at least in California. We can't buy it at the wholesale level any longer.

When it became available a few years ago, it was a replacement for products containing the systemic imidacloprid such as Bayer Tree and Shrub and others. Imidacloprid does work but it also promoted spider mite reproduction. If that is not a problem in your situation, which it does not seem to be, then imidacloprid will do a fine job controlling aphids, most white flies, and other sap sucking pests.

We carry 2 imidacloprid based products in the online store - a spray called Bayer Advanced 3-in-1 and one for soil or pot drenching named Bayer Tree and Shrub.

The commercial grower version of Safari is still available and can probably be found on the internet. It is much more concentrated than the Green Light version for home gardens so costs more to buy but will last a long time. Be sure to adjust the amount used if you get it as less is required. The pro version can be used as either a spray or a drench.

Charlie

[Ernest]

Thanks Charlie. Spider mites don't seem to be a problem with my outdoor plants--at least not so far. So I think the other systemics will do the job.

Erny

[roadrunner]

Charlie, I haven't had any success finding the Green Light with Safari here in southeastern AZ either.  I wonder what the problem is with distribution?  I can't even find Green Light Spinosad here.

Erny, I've used the Bayer Tree and Shrub with great success on my outside container plants.  I got a full growing season of control for aphids, whiteflies, and mealy bugs with one application.  I haven't tried it on in ground plants.  I don't dare use it in my greenhouse as I have a major spider mite problem in there, ditto for in the house.

dave

[Merkity]

that is handy to know about the bayer.  i can buy it locally and really really need some aphid control.  I seem to have a full ecosystem in my potted plants.  Ant colonies and earthworms!  sheesh.  no idea when the earthworms moved in, but i think i am going to have to repot and then apply the systemic...

[Ernest]

Thanks Dave. That's encouraging to hear that you have had success with the Bayer product on your outdoor container plants. I will probably go ahead and use it as a drench on my plants in the ground and let you know how it goes.

Erny