re: 2022 Spring Garden Thread

Pyrethrin will kill them. But you’ll have to stay on top of them with weekly sprays (sometimes more if you have a bad infestation), because pyrethrin has a very short residual and only works on contact. Neem oil may deter them from feeding as often, but it won’t stop them. However it can help with getting rid of them over time. But you’ll need to use 100% cold pressed neem oil. Azadirachtin is a key ingredient in neem that has higher levels when using 100% cold pressed. When ingested it can interrupt growth cycles and stop them from feeding as often. For the young nymphs it may suffocate them. For sap sucking insects like stink bugs it’s recommended to use it as a root drench and foliar spray for maximum benefit. You’ll need an emulsifier when using it. I prefer liquid castile soap, but Dawn will also work. Remember to not spray it in direct sunlight cause it’ll burn your plants.

So with regular use of pyrethrin and neem oil, you should see a reduction over time. But I don’t think you’ll ever get rid of them completely. Back in the day when I didn’t know any better I would use harsh chemicals. Still had stink bugs.