CompuServe Thread

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.