Safer Insecticidal Soap

Safer insecticidal soap is a "natural" pesticide for insect and mite control on fruit trees. This soap-like material, consisting of long-chain fatty acids, is thought to disrupt the cellular metabolism of insects and mites. It has been used to control a variety of insects on various crop and noncrop plants. Safer insecticidal soap is effective only in the liquid state as it contacts the insect or mite. Once dried, it is not toxic to the pest. In certain situations, this pesticide can be an effective alternative to traditionally used insecticides. Moreover, it is extremely safe for humans and other animals. There are no reentry restrictions, and sprays can be applied up to the day of harvest. There is a lingering concern, however, about fruit russeting associated with the product, especially in dilute applications. Moreover, it may be toxic to Stethorus, the black ladybird beetle used as a mite predator. Therefore, we currently recommend Safer insecticidal soap only for nonbearing apple and pear trees and other fruit crops.

On apples, Safer insecticidal soap has proven effective against motile stages of mites and white apple leafhoppers. Apply one part Safer insecticidal soap concentrate and 50 parts soft water to foliage. Be aware that agitation in the spray tank can cause excessive foaming and require the use of defoamer (see label on Safer insecticidal soap container).

On pears, Safer insecticidal soap is effective against pear psylla and mites in postbloom applications at the same rate recommended for apples. However, it is not effective against many other pear pests during postbloom. It can be mixed with a one-half rate of another insecticide to provide a broader range of effectiveness.