Paraffin oil

Paraffin oils belong to the group of highly refined mineral oils used as contact-acting insecto-acaricides. Chemically, they are mixtures of saturated hydrocarbons that form a thin continuous film when applied to the plant surface.

The primary mechanism of action of paraffin oil is physical rather than chemical. The product coats the pest, clogging its spiracles — the respiratory openings through which insects and mites receive oxygen.

As a result of air access blockage, pests die from suffocation (asphyxiation) shortly after treatment. This mechanical mode of action eliminates the risk of developing resistance in pest populations.

Additionally, the oil causes metabolic disruption and dehydration of pest eggs, making it an effective ovicide. Coating the leaf surface also hinders egg laying and the fixation of mobile larvae on the plant.

The product does not have systemic action, so it is critical to ensure complete and uniform coverage of the entire surface of branches and leaves with the working solution to achieve maximum effectiveness.

Paraffin oils are effective against a wide range of soft-bodied pests. Primarily, these include scale insects and mealybugs, which are well protected against contact insecticides by their hard outer shells.

Preparations of this group effectively control populations of various aphid species, including woolly aphids, and effectively destroy larvae and eggs of psyllids.

The spectrum of action covers mites in various developmental stages, including spider mites, gall mites, and fruit tree mites. The oil is capable of suppressing their colonies even during periods of mass reproduction.

Oils are also used against mealybugs that inhabit various garden and ornamental crops. Due to their film-forming properties, the agent penetrates into insect clustering areas that are hard to reach for other pesticides.

• Scale insects and mealybugs
• All aphid species
• Spider and fruit mites
• Psyllids
• Mealybugs

The timing of application depends on the biological cycle of the pests and the growth stage of the crops. Primary treatment is often carried out during the dormant phase (early spring before bud break) to eliminate overwintering stages.

During the growing season, the concentration of the working solution should be lower than during winter spraying to avoid phytotoxicity. Typically, emulsions with a concentration of 0.5% to 2% are used depending on the crop.

A key requirement is water quality and thorough mixing of the composition. The oil must form a stable emulsion; otherwise, uneven application or damage to plant tissues may occur.

The volume of the working liquid should be sufficient for abundant wetting of bark and leaves before droplets start to run off. Treatments should not be carried out in hot weather as the risk of plant sunburn increases significantly.

It is recommended to avoid using oils when the air temperature is above +25°C or in high humidity, which slows down the evaporation of water from the emulsion, extending the phase of oil exposure to the plant.

The main limitation is the high sensitivity of certain plant species to oil-based preparations. Before mass application, it is recommended to conduct a test on a small area of the crop.

It is prohibited to mix paraffin oil with sulfur-containing preparations, as well as with most other pesticides, unless specified by the instructions. The interval between oil and sulfur application should be at least 3-4 weeks.

Do not use oil on crops under stress, for example, during severe drought or lack of soil moisture. This can lead to the clogging of the plant's own stomata and suppression of its photosynthesis.

When using, follow personal hygiene measures. Despite low toxicity to warm-blooded animals, it is necessary to prevent contact with mucous membranes and skin by using basic protective equipment.

Products should be stored at a stable positive temperature, preventing the emulsion from separating in the container. During long-term storage, the concentrate requires thorough shaking before preparing the solution.