Question
Hey guys,
I have a bit of a problem that i'd like advice on.  I have quite a few Nepenthes that are outside plants.  Unfortunately it's been a bit on the dry side so we have an early and abundent explosion of fuzzy caterpillars.  Well you have probably guessed where the question is going right.  The caterpillars are doing what they do best.  Eat and chew on fresh greenry.  They have eaten holes in a few pictures on different plants and actually eaten off a pitcher bud on a ceaser that I have.  That's what upset me the most.

Anyway can you suggest a Nepenthes approved caterpillar repelent?

Thanks Alex

Answer
Hi Alex,

Since the caterpillar population is rather high, use Systemic Insect Killer by Ortho?  It comes only in concentrate form, but it's very useful in this type of infestation.  Just mix it up and apply it according to the directions on the bottle.  Because it acts systemic, the product takes a couple days for it to work.  However, it lasts for a month.

If you want something more immediate, you can also apply pyrethrin.  It's a type of insecticide derived from marigold.  Safer?makes a great prepared solution of it.  Pyrethrin breaks down very quickly, but it also acts very quickly.  Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle.

You can use both safely with carnivorous plants for a powerful one-two punch.  Otherwise, either product will do the job.  Just select one that will be most useful for the type of infestation you have.  (Use the systemic if you have a heavy infestation.  Use the pyrethrin if the infestation is light and controllable.)

Good growing!
Jacob Farin