IGR: Insect Growth Regulator

Insect Growth Regulators (IGR’s) are chemicals such as hydroprene and methoprene, that disrupt and impede the life cycle of insects in the egg and larvae stage of development. The idea with an IGR is that if an insect cannot reach adulthood, it cannot reproduce. In short, IGR is a form of “birth control” for pests which helps keep the populations of unwanted pests under control by preventing current and future infestations.

What kind of pests can be controlled with an IGR?

Some of the most common pests targeted by IGR’s include fleas, ticks, ants, roaches, bedbugs, and other stored product pests.

Since IGR’s address only the problem of reproduction but do not actually kill the adult insect, it is always a good idea to use a knockdown-and-kill insecticide along with the IGR for ultimate population control. ( Also keep in mind that IGR’s are NOT for direct application to pets, although it may be used on their bedding. To treat flea problems on animals, it’s a good idea to use a flea collar or other product designed specifically for direct pet application.)

Professional Products containing IGR's:
	Extinguish Plus Fire Ant Bait Fire Ant bait with IGR that kills fire ants and prevents the queen from laying fertile eggs.
	Gentrol IGR Aerosol Aerosol containting IGR (Insect growth regulator) that is excellent in control of bed bugs, roaches, and more.
	Gentrol IGR Concentrate Insect Growth Regulator in a concentrate form that can be mixed with water and sprayed or mixed together with a liquid pesticide.
	Precor 2000 Plus Aerosol Knock out fleas and ticks in your home or business with this excellent flea killer spray with IGR.
	Precor IGR Concentrate An IGR concentrate made specially for reducing flea populations.

When is the best time to use an IGR?

The ideal time to treat your home with an IGR to prevent bothersome infestations is right now, before reproduction becomes a problem.

How long do IGR's last after I apply them?

Insect Growth Regulators (IGR's) typically are effective for about 30 days when used for indoor treatments. On the other hand, if you are doing outdoor treatments you need to make sure to purchase an IGR product that is photostable if you are going to be spraying the product in areas of direct sunlight. Photostable IGR's last longer in direct sunlight.


Formulations

IGR’s can come in a concentrated, spray, bait, and aerosol form for versatile application. IGR concentrates like Precor and Gentrol are meant to be mixed with water and can then be used as crack and crevice, spot, or fogging applications. (When treating for fleas, concentrates applied to carpets, upholstered furniture, and pet sleeping areas, may prevent adult flea emergence for up to 7 months.)

For More Information

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