Jim from Aurora, Co writes
When I was a PC field rep in CA in the early '80s, I used diluted Diazinon in a tank sprayer for pretty much everything basic (ants, roaches, spiders, etc.) inside and out, and Dursban in the yards for earwigs. My problem critters this year are ants and spiders inside, and earwigs outside (though they occasionally get inside too). If I can't use those incredible products anymore, then what can you recommend, and am I allowed to buy them since I'm not in the business anymore?
We recommend two very effective alternatives for Diazinon and Dusban. Both of these products are in the synthetic pyrethroid family of chemicals and as such are very safe to non-target wildlife, including birds. Below are descriptions for both of these products:
Talstar P which uses the active (a.i. Bifinthrin) Talstar is a synthetic pyrethroid that is available in both granular (Talstar Xtra and Talstar Granules) and liquid concentrate forms. It is very safe towards non-target animals such as birds, reptiles and mammals. Talstar lasts much longer than organophosphate pesticides such as Dursban, Diazinon, Malathion and Acephate. We have had many reported cases of Talstar controlling molecrickets for up to two months, chinch bugs, ants and fire ants for three months! Only 1 or 2 applications are needed each year for mole crickets. No special site preparation is needed when treating for mole crickets with Talstar. Talstar is very effective in controlling ants, fleas, mole crickets, chinch bugs and other turf and ornamental pests.
DeltaGard G uses the active ingredient Deltamethrin: Deltagard is a granular insecticide which utilizes a unique, water soluble carrier. Its irregularly shaped granules dissolve completely (leaving no particles that might be picked up by birds and other non-target species!), delivering the maximum dose of DeltaGard to the target insects. These granules come in 20lb bags which will treat 20,000 square feet. Normal residual is up to 4 weeks, depending on environmental conditions and targeted pests.
Answer last updated on: 08/26/2014
