Four pesticides are labeled and recommended for the prevention of colonization by Ips and Dendroctonus bark beetle species. These pesticides contain the active ingredients carbaryl (trade name Sevin SL®), permethrin (trade names Astro®, Dragnet®, and Masterline Plus C®), or bifenthrin (Onyx®). These active ingredients are present in several other trade-name pesticides. However, other products may not be formulated or registered for use on bark beetles. These pesticides coat the bark and act as a stomach poison to beetles that chew into the bark where it is coated. Be sure that the pesticide label specifically lists bark beetles and that the host plant is also listed on the label. Pesticide labels are legally binding documents, and all pesticides must be applied in compliance with product label directions.
Jeff Schalau, Associate Agent, University of Arizona, and Tom DeGomez, Area Agent and Regional Specialist, University of Arizona
