How to Control Pests While Protecting Pollinators and Beneficial Insects

Introduction: Why It’s Vital to Control Pests While Protecting Pollinators

Effective pest control doesn’t need to come at the expense of pollinators or beneficial insects. Learning how to control pests while protecting pollinators is essential for sustainable agriculture, especially in home gardens and commercial crop settings.

Insecticidal Soap: A Safe Solution for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Insecticidal soap is a foliar spray effective against a wide range of soft-bodied pests:

• Aphids

• Mealybugs

• Whiteflies

• Spider mites

• Thrips

• Leafhoppers

It works by disrupting insect cell membranes on contact without leaving toxic residues, making it non-toxic to pollinators once dry (UC IPM, 2021).

Best Practices for Use

• Apply during dawn or dusk when pollinators are inactive

• Use concentrations below 3% to avoid leaf or flower burn

• Test spray on sensitive plants (e.g., azaleas, begonias)

• Avoid homemade sprays with dish soap, which may damage plants

• Use only commercially formulated potassium salt-based insecticidal soaps

Practical Tips

• Always read product labels before use

• Spot-test on plants for sensitivity symptoms

• Ensure full coverage of pests, as these soaps only work on contact

• Reapply as needed, since there’s no residual effect

Why Commercial Formulas Matter

While homemade sprays may seem cost-effective, they can damage plants and are not reliably effective. Instead, use scientifically formulated products like Koruma Potassium Soap, a specialized foliar spray designed to support both pest resistance and plant health.

This product helps:

• Combat red spider mites (acaricides)

• Reduce the ability of whiteflies to transmit viral diseases

• Improve the appearance of leaves and treated fruits

• Enhance fruit size and assist in pollination
  

  

How to Use

Koruma Potassium Soap is suitable for a wide range of open-field and greenhouse crops, applied as a foliar spray at a rate of 125–150 ml per 100 liters of water.

Pro Tip

For best results:

• Spray during the early morning or late afternoon to prevent leaf burn

• Ensure full coverage of the foliage, especially the underside of leaves, where pests hide

• Repeat as necessary during active infestation periods or critical growth stages

Learn more and purchase at BIMCO International.

Scientific References

• UC IPM (2021). Insecticidal Soaps. University of California

• Cloyd (2009). Understanding Insecticidal Soaps. Kansas State University

• FAO (2003). Plant Nutrition for Food Security. FAO Website