Howdy,

It was suggested that alcohol could be used as an organic pesticide (specifically against bagworms and other pests...). I checked the Dirt Doctor site to see if it was on the list of Acceptable or Unacceptable Organic Pest Control products, but it wasn't on either list. 1) Is alcohol an acceptable organic pest control product, and 2) is it safe/acceptable for use on trees? Thanks so much for any info.!

Whether it is on a list or not, alcohol is a disinfectant that kills "germs." That means it kills beneficial bacteria and some fungi. I would not use it.

For bagworms, the organic product you want is called BT. Many brands are on the market. I bought some Safer's last week and someone else here on the list just bought some Green Light.

BT is a bacterial disease that kills caterpillars. Bagworms are caterpillars. As soon as the BT touches the caterpillars, they stop feeding. Once they stop feeding, they will die in about a day.

Thank you so much DCHall! I did not know how Bt worked, but I only knew it was a recommended course of action! As always, I truly appreciate the reply and all the amazing information.

P.S. My parents opted for the more mechanical approach: they picked them off by hand (ewww...).