Does Liquid Sevin Contain Pyrethrin?

Liquid Sevin Information

• Sevin is an insecticide used to treat various lawn and garden insects. It is available in various forms, including granules, dust and liquid. The liquid version of Sevin comes in ready-to-use and concentrate formulas. Sevin is a trademarked brand of carbaryl manufactured by Bayer Crop Science.

Active Ingredient in Liquid Sevin

• The active ingredient in liquid Sevin is the carbamate insecticide carbaryl. This pesticide works as a stomach poison when ingested by the insect as well as a contact insecticide. When the pest either consumes the insecticide or comes in contact with it, carbaryl attacks its nervous system, resulting in death.

Liquid Sevin Application Directions

• The application directions for liquid Sevin vary depending on the exact type of Sevin insecticide used, what insects you are trying to control and the species of plant being treated. For example, mixing 1.5 ounces of liquid Sevin with 1 gallon of water controls various insects -- including cutworms, beetles and caterpillars -- on vegetable and ornamental plants. Avoid using this pesticide within 14 days before harvest. Liquid Sevin can also be used as a perimeter barrier on the exterior of buildings by diluting 3 fluid ounces in 1 gallon of water and spraying the solution around the perimeter of your home. This will help keep ants, beetles, fleas, spiders and ticks out of your home.

Considerations and Precautions

• One concern with liquid Sevin and other pesticides containing carbaryl is its toxicity to honeybees. Carbaryl is highly toxic to bees and should never be applied when bees are present or active. Carbaryl is also toxic to humans, mammals and beneficial insects, including ladybugs and parasitic wasps. Follow the safety and mixing instructions and warnings found on the liquid Sevin label, and keep children and pets out of the area until the pesticide has dried.