Neonicotinoids

A group of systemic agricultural insecticides resembling nicotine in structure and mechanism of action.  They act on the central nervous system of insects by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. They are considered safe for household use as they tend to have low affinity for vertebrates. This class of pesticide moves through the plant starting from seed growth and therefore is present in all the plant tissues. This results in non-targeted insects being exposed even if the chemical is applied at a later date. The most widely used neonicotinoid is Imidacloprid, a common ingredient in garden insecticides.

More information on Imidacloprid and many other neonicotinoids are available on our website.