According to Wikipedia it's not harmful to most mammals or birds, but it is to cats and fish. Is even used to treat scabies in humans.

I bought a can once to repel ticks. After reading the directions - spay on clothing and wait for it to dry before wearing - I never could bring myself to use it. I definitely wouldn't spray it on my plants, but that's not saying you couldn't.

Hi Salevene
...I live in San Antonio, Texas. Several years ago I have tried Permethrin. Not certain what the strength was, but I believe it came from Walmart. I would guess it was the standard strength, currently available on the market today.

My pepper garden was totally infested with Aphids, I sprayed all the plants (100 in ground & 72 in pots) with the Permethrin as directed using the instructions listed on the label.

Permethrin is an insecticide in the pyrethroid family. Pyrethroids are synthetic chemicals that act like natural extracts from the chrysanthemum flower. When treating peppers for Aphids it is recommended that you spray on the top and bottom of the leaves, (This chemical must be in direct contact with the Aphids or whatever is attacking your pepper plants.)

Well ... to my disappointment, I found the Aphid problem was not resolved. After several applications. Finally I resorted to a chemical called Diazinon, the Aphid problem was gone the next day!. I was very desperate to stop the Aphid attack on my pepper plants. I did not want to loose 172 pepper plants for that season.

Attached I have included a link to a you-tube tutorial regarding growing and caring for peppers. His name is Ray and he endorses Permethrin and neem oil.

COMPLETE indoor Growing Tips and Help!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7nVfrPro8Y

Best Regards;
Thomas

Thanks Thomas, super helpful!

If all you're trying to do is control aphids, WATER is all you need.

Every 3 days, spray undersides of leaves with a spray nozzle/hose. If after 2 weeks, the conditions haven't improved much, then do the same with either neem oil or insecticidal soap. You certainly don't need something pyrethrin based, which is broad spectrum and will kill many beneficial insects

Diligence is the key.

Kevin