View on GitHub ↗Root-absorbed insect control for non-edible container plants. The owned Systemic Houseplant Insect Control, 8 oz granules contain 0.22% imidacloprid, EPA 53883-217-4.
Best fit
An option for listed insects feeding on non-edible container plants, including houseplants. Roots absorb the insecticide and it moves into the plant; feeding insects ingest it. This is a soil application rather than a spray for a visible bug. Bonide describes protection of new growth for up to eight weeks. Product information and label
Targets include aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, soft scales, thrips, and fungus-gnat larvae. It does not control spider mites; choose a mite-labeled option if magnification confirms mites. Label and Extension comparison
Apply to the container
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Check the pot's previous treatment record first. A new bottle does not restart the treatment interval.
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Measure dry granules for the container size. These examples come directly from the label; use its full table for other listed sizes:
Container diameter Granules 4 inches 2½ teaspoons 6 inches 2½ tablespoons 8 inches ⅕ cup -
Distribute evenly and incorporate into the upper 1–2 inches of medium, avoiding root damage. Water thoroughly to activate; avoid heavy watering for the next 10 days, as directed on the label.
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Reserve the measuring utensil for pesticide use. Application directions and rate table
For this collection, dose a shared planter once as one container, not once per botanical profile. Do not estimate a rate from the plant count or round an unlisted pot size upward. Record the amount, container ID, date, and watering event together so later inspections have a useful baseline.
Lithops and split rock need a separate watering decision before any proposed application. Granules requiring water-in are not a reason to interrupt their dry cycle casually. The previously recorded September 26 application remains the treatment history; this guide does not add another application.
Recheck and repeat
Inspect the affected areas for live pests and fresh damage rather than adding more granules when an old mark remains. The label gives an eight-week growing season application interval. Use that instruction when continuing a justified treatment; keep routine observation separate from automatic redosing. Label
Sources
- Bonide product information.
- Bonide label, application directions and container rates; checked September 28, 2026. Match the bottle label before use.
- Colorado State University Extension: Managing Houseplant Pests.