Oil bad for leaves/plants?

9 years ago

I recently read that having an oil coating on leaves is bad for plants. However, that seems to be the way all pest-control works, whether it's an all-natural spray like olive oil, natural soap and garlic, or something chemical that you buy to spray on. What's the real scoop?

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Comments (3)

Kimmsr
9 years ago
Oil can be harmful to plants leaves since they can inhibit what leaves are supposed to do to contribute to the plants well being. There are dormant oils that are meant to be sprayed when plants are dormant, no leaves, and there are "summer oils", aka superior oils, that are supposed to be useable on growing plants with due care.
As with any other "pest" control product a careful reading of the label, and following those instructions carefully, is necessary. All insecticides can have bad consequences if not used with care.
rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
9 years ago
Greendream, commercially manufactured horticultural oils ARE absolutely safe, when used according to the directions on the label. These products are produced in such a manner that they do their job against the pests, but still allow the plant to breathe.

"All natural " is not better when it comes to oils intended for plant use. We do not have the ability to create something completely water soluble and breathable at home. Kitchen concoctions can be gloppy, unmeasurable, and sticky. Very harmful to plant leaves.

The commercial products are so light that, once dry, they are barely discernible on a plant's surface. Simply follow the label directions for mixing and the warnings about the temperature guidelines and you'll be good to go.

People get into trouble when 1) they mix their own goop or 2) don't read, understand, and follow the directions on the label.

That's the real scoop.
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ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
9 years ago
what they said ...

just think of it this way ... do you think it would be beneficial to cover a leaf with oil on a hundred degree day in full blistering sun ..

can you see any reason that would be good ... and presuming not ... then you answered your own question ...

and.. as they note.. that should all be on the label ...

as well as how the product works ... which is usually thru smothering a bug ... which means it has no preventative qualities... in other words .. you have to hit the bug ... not hope it runs thru the goo by itself .... so if you see damage.. but dont see a bug.. then spraying isnt worth it .. eh???

but i dont use the stuff.. and if they say otherwise .. they are right i am not ... just some general words to give you the concept..

ken