bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - Systemics are not allowed on Elms!

Chinese elms can react very badly to systemic insecticides. Some people have used them however. I have--once. Elm didn't appreciate it much. Haven't used them since. If you have a fungal problem, there are other ways to deal with it than a systemic--like topical fungicide sprays, repotting, watching the watering, etc.

Using insecticides on bonsai can sometimes be an iffy proposition, depending on species and the type of insecticide. For instance, I found out the hard way that tridents can be sensitive to Pyrethrum-based bug spray. Had one trident that completely defoliated itself after being sprayed for aphids.

When using insecticides with bonsai, best to use sparingly and only when absolutely needed. "Preventative" spraying or use of systemics when no real problem is present is not a wise way to go.

8-Feb-2008	#2
rockm bonsaiTALK ArchMaster Join Date: Oct-2003 Location: Fairfax, Va Country: USA USDA Zone: 7 AHS Heat Zone: ? Posts: 4,561	Chinese elms can react very badly to systemic insecticides. Some people have used them however. I have--once. Elm didn't appreciate it much. Haven't used them since. If you have a fungal problem, there are other ways to deal with it than a systemic--like topical fungicide sprays, repotting, watching the watering, etc. Using insecticides on bonsai can sometimes be an iffy proposition, depending on species and the type of insecticide. For instance, I found out the hard way that tridents can be sensitive to Pyrethrum-based bug spray. Had one trident that completely defoliated itself after being sprayed for aphids. When using insecticides with bonsai, best to use sparingly and only when absolutely needed. "Preventative" spraying or use of systemics when no real problem is present is not a wise way to go.