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Jun 1, 2023 · Insecticidal soap is a mixture of water and the potassium salts of fatty acids and is commonly used to curb infestations of insects on indoor and outdoor plants. Soap sprays are effective for soft-bodied insects such as mealybugs and aphids. Insecticidal soap typically does not harm plants.
: an agent that destroys one or more species of insects. broadly : an agent that destroys insects as well as other small pests (such as mites or nematodes) Aphids, mealybugs, and cyclamen mites are all common problems and can be controlled with any low-toxicity insecticide sold specifically for houseplants. Horticulture.
Feb 29, 2024 · Insecticides are chemicals used to control insects by killing them or preventing them from engaging in undesirable or destructive behaviors. They are classified based on their structure and mode of action. Many insecticides act upon the insect's nervous system (e.g., cholinesterase inhibition), while others act as growth regulators or endotoxins.
made and used for killing insects, especially those that eat plants or carry diseases: The oil has been shown to possess insecticidal and antifungal properties. They use an insecticidal treatment to destroy wasp's nests.
Insecticide, any toxic substance that is used to kill insects. Such substances are used primarily to control pests that infest cultivated plants or to eliminate disease-carrying insects in specific areas. The accumulation of some insecticides in the environment can in fact pose a serious threat to both wildlife and humans.
adjective. /ɪnˌsektɪˈsaɪdl/ [usually before noun] connected with the use of chemicals to kill insects. Definitions on the go. Look up any word in the dictionary offline, anytime, anywhere with the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app. Check pronunciation: insecticidal.
It includes some made from bacteria, insect-killing fungi or viruses; products such as insecticidal soaps that kill by physical processes; and products like the clay-based Surround that don’t directly kill insects, but protect plants.
