Dormant Oil

Dormant oils are used to suffocate insects -- larva, adults, pupae and eggs. Sucking insects such as thrips, scales and aphids are primary targets. The oil creates a thin layer over the insect and prevents breathing. Dormant oil also works controlling spider mites.

Commercial formulations can be used according to directions.

Make sure to use dormant oil when temperatures are above freezing for at least 24 hours. Plants should not have started to grow or bud out.

Dormant oils do NOT control diseases.

Dormant oils can be used every two to three years and provide the same control as yearly applications.