#New Organic Insecticide
Ringer Corporation has announced a new organic insecticide called "Bioneem"
or "Neemisis" (they have not chosen the final name). The product, made
from neem, is extracted from the seeds of the Neem tree, a renewable
resource. The insecticide works in one of three ways depending on the
insect. It is growth regulator which disrupts the molting cycle of insects
causing them to die. It can be an anti-feedant causing the insect to stop
feeding and starve to death. It can also work as a repellent that causes
insects to leave the area of neem spray. It affects more than 170 kinds of
insects. It is especially effective on caterpillars, gypsy moths, army
worms, beetles — including the Colorado Potato Beetle and Mexican Bean
Beetle — and other common pests such as leaf miners, whiteflies, and
aphids. At the moment it is approved for use on trees and shrubs and other
ornamentals. By the end of the year, Ringer expects it to be approved for
lawns and food crops. It is now available mailorder from Ringer
Corporation. Call 1-800-654-1047 for a free catalog. In 1993, neem will
be sold in virtually all the retail outlets in the country. It does not
hurt earthworms, lady bugs, parasitic wasps, and most other beneficial
insects including honey bees. It will serve as a less toxic, but just as
effective tool as rotenone, pyrethrum, malathion, carbayl, and diazinon.
If the bug eats the leaf or sucks on the leaf, neem will likely control it.
This is a major breakthrough for home gardeners and yardeners.