What’s The Difference Between Systemic and Non-Systemic Pest Control?
At some stage in your growing career, whether it’s a hobby or a livelihood, you’ll likely be faced with the systemic vs non-systemic pest control dilemma. Systemic pest control involves the use of pesticides that are absorbed by the plant via the roots or leaves. The pesticide solution is then circulated internally through the plant’s vascular system. This means that every part of the plant, from the roots to the tips, becomes protected from the inside out. Pests that feed on treated plants ingest the pesticide and are killed, even if they never come into direct contact with the original application. While this method does provide a top-to-bottom solution, it comes with ecological trade-offs such as risks to pollinators and the potential for harmful runoff. Stay protected year-round with expert services from All American Pest Control.
In this article, we’ll explore what systemic pest control is, how it works, and how it compares to non-systemic alternatives. By understanding the differences, you’ll be able to make informed choices about which method aligns best with your plant health goals, environmental considerations and the specific type of pests you’re targeting.
What is Systemic Pest Control?
As we touched on above, systemic pest control involves applying pesticides that are absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues. This effectively protects the entire plant from pests because no matter where on the plant the pest feeds, it will ingest the pesticide and die. This method contrasts with non-systemic pesticides, which only affect pests that come into direct contact with the sprayed solution.
Key Features of Systemic Pest Control
Absorption and Distribution
Systemic pesticides are designed to be absorbed by the plant, typically through the roots or leaves, and then distributed throughout its vascular system (xylem and phloem).
Internal Protection
Once inside the plant, the pesticide creates a toxic barrier, preventing pests from feeding on the plant tissue and ultimately killing them.
Broad Spectrum
Many systemic insecticides can target a wide range of pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and root nematodes.
Potential Risks
While effective against target pests, systemic insecticides can also harm beneficial insects and other non-target organisms, potentially disrupting the ecosystem. Systemic pesticides can also persist in the soil and water for years, leading to an accumulation in your environment.
What is Non-Systemic Pest Control?
Non-systemic pest control involves using pest control products that do not move throughout the plant or animal they are applied to. Instead, they remain on the surface and kill pests through direct contact or when the pests ingest the treated surface. These solutions will often be referred to as ‘contact killers’ because pests are killed when they come into direct contact with the treated surface or ingest the treated surface.
Key Features of Non-Systemic Pest Control
Surface Action
Non-systemic pesticides stay on the plant’s surface or animal’s skin, not being absorbed or transported to other parts of the plant or animal. Certain solutions have been specifically formulated to attack the exoskeleton of a pest, killing them from the outside in, as opposed to needing to ingest the solution.
Contact Kill
Pests are killed when they come into direct contact with the treated surface or ingest the treated surface, providing a quick solution for pest control.
Application Specific
They are typically applied to the areas where pests are present or likely to be, rather than systemically throughout the plant or animal. This can mean that further applications may be required, which can form part of a routine management schedule for healthy plants and clean irrigation systems.
Zero Potential for Resistance
Just like viruses in human bodies develop immunity to antibiotics after being repeatedly exposed to the same vaccine, insects develop resistance to repeated exposure to insecticides, whether systemic or residual. If you opt for a contact killer that dries quickly, there is no chance for insect resistance.
Less Risk to the Environment
Non-systemic formulas may be preferred by those seeking a more environmentally friendly pest control solution. Due to the pesticide not being absorbed by the plant, there is less risk of harm to beneficial insects, and the localized application means little risk of the solution accumulating in the environment.
Systemic vs Non-Systemic Pest Control: Which is Better?
Ultimately, non-systemic pest control is generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly than systemic pest control. Systemic pesticides, while effective in reaching pests within the plant, can also harm beneficial insects, pollinators, and aquatic life due to their broader distribution and potential for environmental runoff. On the other hand, Non-systemic pesticides only affect pests they come into contact with, offering a more targeted approach. Non-systemic pesticides are often preferable for organic gardening and integrated pest management
Explore All-Natural Contact Killers For Healthy Plants
After considering the key factors of using systemic and non-systemic pesticides, if you’ve opted to take the targeted, safer approach, you might want to explore your Environmental Plant Management options. There is a range of non-systemic pest control products available, including ones that offer unique benefits that contribute to overall plant health.