Safe Caterpillar Killer for Petunias

Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids

• Extracts from the chrysanthemum plant are used to make pyrethrin-based insecticides. Natural pyrethrin products are less effective against caterpillars than synthetic pyrethroids, which are made from petroleum extracts. Both have low human toxicity and are safe to use on petunias.

Spinosad

• Spinosad is a naturally occurring soil bacterium. It is a fast-acting caterpillar killer that works on contact or by ingestion. Cornell University reports that spinosad is effective on caterpillars and has a "very low acute mammalian toxicity."

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

• Bacillus thuringiensis is a bacterial insect disease. It is an effective biological insecticide against leaf- and bud-eating caterpillars like the budworm. Bacillus thuringiensis -- Bt -- is safe to use around people, pets and non-target wildlife.

Parasitic Wasps

• Parasitic wasps control early stage budworm infestations. These small, beneficial insects lay eggs inside caterpillar hosts. Parasitic wasps are not dangerous to humans.