Help with Grasshoppers

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GeminisGreen Central Coast, CA(Zone 10a) Aug 22, 2011

Hi, I've been looking all over this site for some good info regarding grasshopper control. All I've found so far is ID questions but no suggestions on how to control them. I apologize if this is not the right place.

I've got major grasshopper damage, especially on my dahlias, zinnia and amaryllis. I've never had this problem here, I guess it probably has to do with the large amounts of rain we had this year. Anyway, they're eating just about all of my plants, even taking little bites of sempervivum and aeonium. I've tried spraying with dish soap and dusting with cayenne pepper but to no avail.

Can someone please give me some ideas?

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themoonhowl Prairieville, LA(Zone 9a) Aug 22, 2011

Hi Geminisgreen. Here are some links that deal with grasshoppers in your neck of the woods. I believe Spinosad is used with fairly good results.

http://www.sidney.ars.usda.gov/grasshopper/

These two give info from a large scale perspective, but do list different insecticides that are effective.

http://extension.usu.edu/files/factsheets/grassho2.pdf

http://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/articles/beef/general/grasshoppers.htm

edited for link


This message was edited Aug 22, 2011 6:45 PM

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ecrane3 Dublin, CA(Zone 9a) Aug 22, 2011

Semaspore is a biological control that is fairly specific for grasshoppers (will also kill crickets, but not other insects) http://www.arbico-organics.com/product/semaspore-organic-grasshopper-control/pest-solver-guide-grasshoppers-crickets

Post #8771791
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Aug 22, 2011

When you order Semaspore, make sure you check on the use by date. I ordered the item and it didn't have a sticker with the use by date. I called the company, they wondered why there was no sticker, said it must have rubbed off. But they just got a new order and the use by date is still good for 1 month. I trusted them, used the product, but unfortunately it didn't work. The bacteria was probably dead. So make sure you have a fresh batch.

Post #8771858
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GeminisGreen Central Coast, CA(Zone 10a) Oct 26, 2011

Thank you all so much for the responses! I apologize for not replying sooner, we got hit with some big news shortly after my post and moved...again...I got to move back into my own home and out of base housing because we are probably going to retire here. Yay for permanence!

I was able to get some Semaspore from a local nursery, the owner used it on his personal stock. It seemed to do the trick because within a few weeks I was seeing less of them as I went back to move my plants to our new home. I never even thought about an expiration date- I will definatley be getting some for next year and will look for the date. Thanks Birke!

Maybe if they're bad again, I will just make a temporary screen and throw my lizards in there for a feast!

Seriously though, I do appreciate the info. I was worried and don't want to lose any more plants to them. These suckers are gigantic!

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