Question
I have been propagating palm seed for quite a few years without too many problems but in the last couple of years I have noticed a tiny silver/grey moth (whcih appears to be living in the planting medium)and chewing tiny holes in the seedling as soon as the leaf starts to form. Can you please tell me how to get rid of them as they are rendering the plant useless until the second leaf forms and the original leaf snipped off. Many Thanks. Marg.

Answer
Moths can be controlled with powdered rotenone or sevin. However, to control the larvae, you must use a product called BT.

BT is an organic insecticide which is short for Bacillus Thuringiensis, more commonly sold under the brand names Dipel or MVP. It is a dust that is non-toxic to humans and beneficials but highly effective against caterpillars, cabbage worms, moth larvae, and hornworms. As with other organic products such as pyrethrum and rotenone, you can purchase this product through on-line catalogs such as Gardens Alive, Planet Natural, or locally at many garden centers.  

Good luck, and have a great week.  

Regards,

Mike