Inorganic Pesticides

Of the many types of chemicals that exist that address pest problems, a very effective variant are Inorganic Pesticides. Scientifically, a pesticide is deemed inorganic if it does not contain the element carbon in its ingredients. Some of the more popular pesticides that pest control professionals use are classified as Inorganic.

On this page, we will tell you about Inorganic Pesticides, the difference it has between organic pesticides, how they work and their benefits. You can also use this page to shop our top Inorganic Pesticide product recommendations.

What are Inorganic Pesticides?

Simply put, an inorganic pesticide is a chemical designed to destroy pests that does not contain the carbon element based in its chemical structure. This helps to differentiate it from Organic Pesticides which are based in carbon. The minerals used in Inorganic pesticides are mined and extracted from the earth.

Some of the more popular minerals that are used in pesticides and are deemed organic are borates, sulfates and silicates (diatomaceous earth). Inorganic pesticides also include metals such as silver and copper.

Because Inorganic Pesticides cover such a broad range of minerals and materials, they can be used in many different formulations such as dusts, powders, granules, water-soluble powders and more.

How Do Inorganic Pesticides Work?

Inorganic Pesticides differ in how they affect target pests depending on the exact mineral or active ingredient in the pesticide product. For example, the inorganic chemical known as Borate causes disturbances in the cells of target pests causing the pest to lose energy and die. 

Inorganic Pesticides that contain sulfur can be used as a fungicide and insecticide and disrupts the normal body functions of any insect that touches or eats it. Copper is another inorganic chemical used mainly as a plant fungicide and protects plants against fungal pathogens. Other Inorganic Pesticides work via causing target pests to die from dehydration.

Benefits of Inorganic Pesticides

Inorganic Pesticides have proven to be very effective in addressing pest problems, depending on the specific ingredient and the situation it is used in. For instance, Borate has shown excellent results in termite control and stopping termites from further damaging wood. Copper and Sulfur pesticides have demonstrated excellent control and suppression of various fungicides that may infect vulnerable plants.

Another benefit of most inorganic pesticides is its residual effect. They tend to be effective for much longer because they only partially break down after application. For example, treating wood with Boracare (which contains Borate) can protect against termite infestations for up to 7 years.

Choose an inorganic pesticide when you desire an effective pesticide treatment option with long-lasting results.

Drawbacks of Inorganic Pesticides

Inorganic Pesticides usually are riskier to use than organic pesticides. If you mishandle the product, you can do harm to non-intended targets, the ecosystem or the environment.

Inorganic pesticide may be slower acting that convention pesticides but some pesticides are mixed with PBO (piperonyl butoxide) that help it to achieve faster results.

If you desire a safer method of pest control, there are alternatives out there that may be a better option for you over inorganic pesticides.

Are Inorganic Pesticides Safe?

Inorganic Pesticides are safe as long as you apply the product carefully according to the label directions. Take the proper precautions and wear personal protective equipment (gloves, protective eyewear, a safety mask, etc).

What To Expect

Depending on the Inorganic Pesticide being used you can see varying results in the time it takes to kill or suppress the target pest. Closely monitor the areas where you have applied the product to determine whether you need to make any reapplications. 

Featured Products

Boracare Termite Treatment - Boracare is a unique borate-based termiticide, insecticide and fungicide product that provides prevention and control against termites, wood-destroying beetles, carpenter ants, and decay fungi for up to 30 years.

Ficam Insect Bait - Ficam Insect Bait is a ready-to-use granular insecticide made with orthoboric acid that controls many different crawling insects. Insects ingest the bait and within a couple of weeks colonies are eliminated. Ficam is weather and moisture resistant, making it effective indoors and outdoors for effective insect control.

Kocide 3000 Copper Fungicide - Kocide 3000 is a copper-based fungicide and bactericide specially formulated to treat diseases on trees and crops. It uses the active ingredient Copper Hydroxide to prevent crop destroying diseases such as blight, black spot, downy mildew, and more.