Phosmet is a toxic chemical that damages several common insect pests of apple trees. This chemical is primarily used to manage populations of codling moth on apples, but it can also treat infestations of mites, aphids and other parasitic insects. Phosmet breaks down relatively quickly -- its half-life may be as little as three to four days in some soil types. This chemical is distributed under multiple brand names. It is also found in some combination pesticides that contain mixtures of two or more chemicals.
Carbaryl-based pesticides can remedy several common insect infestations on apple trees, including apple maggots and tunnelers, which attack apple fruit while it is still growing on the tree. This insecticide is distributed under several trade names. Carbaryl interferes with the biological and chemical reactions of the insect nervous system. It is effective for treating pests on grasses, flowers and vegetables as well.
Malathion, also called carbophos or maldison, is a common insecticidal chemical that treats pest infestations on both animals and plants. Malathion is effective for managing lice, flies and mosquitoes and is suitable for general insecticidal applications. This chemical is an ingredient in numerous pesticides and is packaged under a variety of trade names. Scientific reports suggest female humans and animals are susceptible to toxicity from much lower amounts of malathion than males due to differences in biological reactions between the genders.
Horticultural oils are diluted mixtures containing petroleum and other chemicals that can be applied to fruit trees to treat infestations of several common pests. Horticultural oils kill insects by clogging their spiracles, the openings that allow them to breath, and disrupting vital chemical processes in their bodies. These oils are effective for treating outbreaks of aphids and scales, both of which are problematic on fruit trees. These insects suck sap from the tissues of their host, causing cosmetic damage, decreased fruit yield and possibly transmitting deadly viruses and bacteria between plants.