I'm a relative newbie to growing toms and have read the rave reports about BtK controlling the hornworm problem. It sounded wonderful, so I bought a bag of the BtK powder. But now I'm stumped -- how do I apply this stuff? The only directions on the bag says "dust on plant", what do they mean by that, literally just pour it over the toms? Do I need to coat all sides of all leaves? Is there a good "dusting" method? Or can I mix it with water and spray it? Would this be a better application method and can anyone recommend the ratio of BtK to water? How about mixing BtK and aspirin with water and spraying both together? Or is this a no-no?

I think my inexperience with toms is making me overthink this ...

Thanks!!

We all have a tendency to do that so join the crowd. ;)

I'm surprised that the product doesn't come with good directions for use and it should tell you if water mixing is possible. What brand did you buy? Most of the dust forms of products are meant to be applied with one of the many dusting tools available on the market - applicators that disperse it in a uniform cloud that covers all parts of the plant - and range in cost from $5 to $50. But some also come in a "shaker" can with sprinkling holes in the top. I take it yours is not one of these?

Over the years I have found that you can get a fairly good application out of an old flour sifter or even an old salt shaker - the big ones you used to see around at yard sales. ;)

I don't have any personal experience with mixing it with water but the Bonide brand of BT page gives some info that might help.

Never heard of adding aspirin for any reason so can't help you with that part.