What is ED Rosenthal’s Zero Tolerance Herbal Pesticide Concentrate?
Zero Tolerance is a plant-based essential oil pesticide concentrate designed to kill and repel common garden pests while helping suppress fungal issues like powdery mildew. It uses food-grade oils such as cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and thyme. It’s OMRI listed for organic use and is commonly used as an insecticide, miticide, and fungicide-style spray in one.
What pests and diseases does Zero Tolerance control?
It’s widely used against spider mites, thrips, aphids, whiteflies, fungus gnat adults, mealybugs, scale, caterpillars, and ants. It’s also applied to help knock back powdery mildew and surface mould pressure. At stronger dilutions it works as a knockdown spray, and at lighter rates it’s used as a preventative or repellent.
Is Zero Tolerance safe for edible plants and organic gardens?
Yes, when used as directed it’s commonly applied to edible gardens and organic setups. A typical guideline is to stop spraying around 10 days before harvest to allow essential oils to evaporate. Always wash produce before eating and follow label directions for dilution and application timing.
When is the best time to spray Zero Tolerance?
Spray in the evening or when plants are out of strong sun or intense grow lights. Avoid spraying in direct sunlight or under hot lamps, as oils plus heat can cause leaf spotting. Let foliage dry fully before returning lights to full intensity.
Can Zero Tolerance burn or damage plants?
It can if mixed too strong, sprayed in heat, applied to wilted plants, or over-applied. Always test a few leaves first and wait 24 hours. Some plants are more sensitive to essential oils, especially thin-leafed ornamentals, delicate seedlings, and certain herbs.
How do I dilute Zero Tolerance for infestations vs prevention?
Dilution depends on plant tolerance and whether you’re treating an active infestation or running prevention. Infestation mixes are stronger, preventative mixes lighter. Start moderate, test, then increase only if plants handle it well. Different species respond differently, so testing is essential.
How do I use Zero Tolerance for spider mites and thrips?
Spray thoroughly, especially the undersides of leaves where pests hide. Repeat applications every few days to break life cycles, since eggs are often missed on the first spray. Consistent follow-up and good environmental control are critical for long-term control.
Does Zero Tolerance work for fungus gnats?
It’s more effective on adults and surface contact zones than deep larvae. Treat the top layer of media lightly, improve airflow, and avoid overwatering. For heavy larval pressure, combine with proper moisture management and targeted larval control strategies.
Can I mix Zero Tolerance with neem oil, soap, or other sprays?
Mixing essential oil products with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or other pesticides increases burn risk and compatibility issues. Most plant damage happens from tank-mixing multiple products. If you plan to combine products, test first and avoid blind mixing.
Can Zero Tolerance be used in hydro or as a soil drench?
It’s primarily a foliar spray. It can be used around the base or media carefully, but strong essential oil drenches may stress roots. It’s generally not intended to sit in hydro reservoirs long-term. Targeted application is safer than dosing an entire system.
Is Zero Tolerance safe around pets, kids, and beneficial insects?
When used properly and allowed to dry, it’s commonly considered family-friendly, but it is still a pesticide. Keep pets and children away during spraying. It can harm beneficial insects on contact, so avoid direct spraying of ladybugs or predatory mites and time applications carefully.
How should I store and handle Zero Tolerance?
Store sealed, cool, and out of direct sunlight. Shake well before use, as oils can separate. Mix fresh rather than storing diluted solution. Rinse sprayers immediately after use with warm water. Essential oils can irritate skin and eyes, so avoid inhaling mist and wash up after spraying.
