Plant protection against pests It is one of the biggest challenges for both amateur and professional gardeners. professional farmers. In this context, the use of systemic insecticides It represents an advanced, effective, and long-lasting solution capable of acting against a broad spectrum of harmful insects. This system not only eliminates existing pests but also protects the plant from within, hindering the emergence of new infestations. Knowing the differences, applications, precautions, and advantages allows you to get the most out of this powerful plant care tool.
What is a systemic insecticide?
Los systemic insecticides They are chemicals designed to be absorbed by plant tissues through roots or leaves. Once inside, they are distributed throughout the vascular system of the plant, ensuring that any insect that feeds on it – regardless of where it is located – is affected by the product. This ability allows for effective control of pests such as Aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, leaf miners, thrips, mites, caterpillars, beetles and many more, even in hard-to-reach areas or with pests hidden on the underside of leaves. For more comprehensive management, it is also advisable to know other control strategies, such as biological pest control.
The systemic action stands out compared to traditional contact products, as it does not require the insect to be present at the time of application. This provides comprehensive and long-lasting protection, improving the overall health of the plant.
How do systemic insecticides work?
The operating principle of the systemic insecticides It is its absorption and internal circulation through the xylem y phloem of the plant. Application can be made to the soil (for root absorption) or to the leaves (foliar absorption). After being absorbed, these products are transported and remain active in all tissues, including new shoots and flowers, so their reach is far greater than that of conventional insecticides. When an insect feeds on any part of the treated plant, it ingests the insecticide and is either killed or repelled.
In addition, many systemic products also act through contact and ingestion, ensuring a dual action against pests, which enhances the speed and effectiveness of control. Another major advantage is the persistence of the effect, which can last between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on the product and environmental conditions, reducing the frequency of treatments.
Types of systemic insecticides and their applications
- Broad spectrum: They act against a wide variety of pests at different stages of development. Example: products based on acetamiprid such as EPINSEL and ICETASEL, which are especially effective against Aphids, whiteflies, Colorado potato beetle, mealybugs, caterpillars y Mites.
- Specific: There are products focused on specific pests, such as neem oil for sucking insects or the dimethoate all with White fly y trips.
- Ecological formulations: Systemic insecticides based on natural extracts, such as Please, they have a preventive function and are compatible with organic farming.
Amongst the crops and ornamental plants where systemic insecticides are most used stand out fruit trees, vegetables, indoor plants, ornamental plants y fruit trees in general.
Key differences between contact and systemic insecticides
The main difference lies in the mode of action:
- Contact insecticide: It is only effective if it comes into direct contact with the pest, acting by suffocation, dehydration or external poisoning. Potassium soap y diatomaceous earth are examples of this type and, although ecological, require frequent applications and precision in treatment.
- Systemic insecticide: It is absorbed by the plant and protects from within. The insect is affected even if it is not present at the time of application, making it ideal for large infestations, hard-to-find pests, or persistent outbreaks.
For further information on other control techniques, please refer to .
Benefits and advantages of systemic insecticides
- Integral protection: Defense throughout the plant, reaching new leaves and shoots.
- Preventive and curative action: Ability to eliminate active pests and prevent new infestations for several weeks.
- Reduction in number of applications: Persistence of up to 3-4 weeks makes frequent treatment unnecessary.
- Effectiveness against difficult pests: Internal or protected pests, such as leaf miners and beetles, are best controlled with systemic treatments.
In pest management, it can also be useful to know the role of pheromones: The role of pheromones in agricultural pest control.
Application mode and recommendations for use
- Right moment: Carry out treatment when the first signs of pests are detected, preferably in spring or summer, in mild temperatures, without wind or rain.
- Preparation: Dilute the recommended dosage of the product in water according to instructions. For example, for acetamiprid usually 10 ml per liter of water or for multipurpose products from 4 to 5 ml/litre.
- Application: Spray the entire plant, carefully covering leaves, stems and especially the undersides of the leaves.
- Respect safety deadlines: Never harvest before the recommended harvest time to avoid residues on the fruit. This is essential for horticultural and fruit crops.
- Rotate products: To avoid resistance, alternate the use of different active ingredients in each campaign.
To expand your knowledge on safe crop treatments, you can consult melon diseases.
Precautions, warnings and environmental considerations
- Toxicity: Most commercial systemic insecticides, such as those containing acetamiprid, are classified as having moderate toxicity (Acute Category 4). It is essential to read and follow all manufacturer's recommendations.
- Environment: Some products pose risks to aquatic organisms (Category 1). Apply away from water sources and avoid runoff.
- Personal security: Use gloves y mask during application and store the product out of the reach of children and animals.
Responsible use of insecticides helps avoid negative impacts on the ecosystem, for example, by respecting areas near bodies of water.
