"...This quote seems to imply that you are adverse to useing insecticides but poisoning by an alcohol induced coma is OK
. Just confused by this reasoning.
..."
Good comment/question Al...
I'm not a chemist or biologist or insecticidist...or scientist of any ilk, for that manner.
Don't be confused, Al...
My adversitivity does not relate to the ultimate method of death...rather, it is a matter of which does the least harm to the evnvironment.
We've all heard about insecticides contaminating the environment, haven't we? Rachel Carson ring a bell? And, since I've never seen any evidence supporting damage to the environment caused by alcochol, I opt to use Carl's rather than any commercial insecticides.
Would I ever use an insecticide? Yes I would...however, only after IDing the pest, and determining that a hosing of clear water won't do the job, and determing that Carl's won't do it. Then, I would use ONLY an insecticide that is indicated for the specific pest...and is deemed safe for the particular plant.
I am of the school that believes in ALWAYS starting with the least toxic possible remedy, then move progressively on to the more toxic...if needed.
Having stated this before, I will now be dedundant...the ONLY bug juice I keep "in stock" is Carl's. And, I have used it only twice in the last two years.
Have all this, if anbody can direct me evidence that alcohol does harm the environment...in the contxt of our bonsai...please point me to it...I will be glad to evaluate the evidence. And, maybe change my stand.
Pat