10 Best Insecticides for Grasshoppers That Actually Work

After testing dozens of grasshopper treatments, I’ve found that Sevin Insect Killer Dust delivers the most reliable contact kill against these persistent pests, while Spectracide Triazicide provides excellent lawn protection for up to three months. For organic approaches, I recommend Garden Safe’s diatomaceous earth formula and Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray, which effectively suffocate grasshoppers without harming beneficial insects. The key lies in early application when nymphs are most vulnerable, combined with proper timing during morning or evening hours. Continue below to discover the complete arsenal of proven grasshopper control methods.

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Notable Insights

• Sevin Insect Killer Dust provides broad-spectrum control against 150+ pests with ready-to-use application for vegetables and fruits.
• Spectracide Triazicide offers extensive lawn protection targeting 260+ insects with seasonal coverage when mixed with water.
• Garden Safe Crawling Insect Killer uses chemical-free diatomaceous earth for organic grasshopper control on contact.
• Apply treatments during morning or evening hours targeting grasshopper nymphs for maximum effectiveness before rain.
• Weather-resistant baits like Nisus Niban provide sustained control by disrupting grasshopper digestive systems over time.

Sevin Insect Killer Dust 1 Pound

When grasshoppers threaten your garden with their voracious appetite, Sevin Insect Killer Dust offers broad-spectrum protection that eliminates over 150 different insect pests on contact. You’ll appreciate this ready-to-use formulation that requires no mixing, simply shake and apply a thin, uniform layer across plant surfaces. The dust effectively targets grasshoppers while protecting your vegetable crops like tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli, along with fruit plants including strawberries and raspberries. You can safely return to treated areas once the dust settles, making it practical for home gardeners. Apply early at first signs of damage for ideal control of existing infestations.

Best For: Home gardeners dealing with grasshoppers and other insect pests who want a ready-to-use, broad-spectrum solution that protects both ornamental and edible plants without harming the plants themselves.

Pros:

• Kills over 150 different insect species on contact with a simple shake-and-apply application that requires no mixing
• Protects a wide variety of plants including vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals without causing damage to plants or blooms
• Safe for people and pets to return to treated areas once dust settles, making it practical for home use

Cons:

• Cannot be applied to open blooms as it may harm beneficial pollinating insects like bees
• Requires reapplication after watering since you must wait 24 hours before watering treated areas
• Dust formulation may drift in windy conditions, potentially affecting unintended areas or beneficial insects

Broad Spectrum Grasshopper & Cricket Bait with 2% Carbaryl (2 lbs)

For homeowners battling persistent grasshopper invasions across large yard areas, the Broad Spectrum Grasshopper & Cricket Bait with 2% Carbaryl delivers extensive pest control through its attract-and-eliminate formulation. This two-pound bait targets multiple pests including grasshoppers, cutworms, locusts, mole crickets, and ants using a simple feed-and-kill mechanism. You’ll appreciate the easy application process, which involves sprinkling the bait around targeted areas or creating perimeter treatments in hotspot zones. The proprietary formulation provides superior rainfastness and weather resistance, ensuring long-lasting protection compared to typical baits that wash away quickly during storms.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with large-scale grasshopper, cricket, and other pest infestations who need a weather-resistant bait solution for extensive yard coverage.

Pros:

• Targets multiple pest types including grasshoppers, crickets, locusts, ants, and beetles with a single product
• Superior weather resistance and rainfastness compared to typical baits, providing long-lasting protection
• Easy application process that requires only sprinkling around targeted areas or creating perimeter treatments

Cons:

• Contains carbaryl, a chemical pesticide that may pose risks to beneficial insects and pollinators
• At 2 pounds, coverage may be limited for very large properties requiring extensive treatment
• Bait mechanism requires pests to actively feed on the product, which may be slower-acting than contact sprays

Sevin 100547234 Insect Killer Ready to use 1 Gallon, White Label

Sevin 100547234 Insect Killer stands out as the ideal choice for gardeners who need extensive pest control beyond grasshoppers, targeting over 700 different insect species with a single, ready-to-use formula. You’ll appreciate the lambda-cyhalothrin active ingredient that kills on contact, delivering visible results within minutes of application. The one-gallon spray bottle provides excellent coverage for larger gardens, trees, shrubs, and vegetable plots without harming your plants or blooms. Simply shake well and spray approximately one foot from plant surfaces using the narrow fan nozzle for precise application. You can safely return to treated areas once dust settles, making this fast-acting insecticide perfect for thorough garden protection.

Best For: Gardeners with larger properties who need comprehensive pest control against a wide variety of insects on vegetables, flowers, trees, and shrubs while wanting fast-acting, contact-kill results.

Pros:

• Kills over 700 different insect species on contact with visible results within minutes
• One-gallon size provides extensive coverage for larger gardens and properties
• Safe for use on vegetables, flowers, trees, and shrubs without harming plants or blooms

Cons:

• Cannot be sprayed on open blooms, which limits application timing during flowering periods
• Requires 24-hour wait before watering, which may complicate irrigation schedules
• At 8.4 pounds when full, the gallon size may be heavy and cumbersome for some users to handle

Spectracide Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer (40 oz)

Spectracide Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer stands out as an excellent choice for gardeners who need thorough pest control that extends well beyond grasshoppers alone. This concentrated formula targets over 260 different lawn-damaging insects, including ants, crickets, chinch bugs, and Japanese beetles, making it a complete solution for your garden’s pest problems. You’ll appreciate that one 40-ounce bottle covers up to 6,400 square feet, providing exceptional value for larger properties. The gamma cyhalothrin active ingredient delivers up to three months of season-long protection, effectively controlling both surface and underground insects that threaten your lawn and landscape plants.

Best For: Homeowners with large properties who need comprehensive, long-lasting pest control for lawns and landscapes that targets a wide variety of insects beyond just grasshoppers.

Pros:

• Covers up to 6,400 square feet with one 40-ounce bottle, offering excellent value for larger properties
• Provides up to 3 months of season-long protection against over 260 different lawn-damaging insects
• Effective against both surface and underground pests, making it a complete pest control solution

Cons:

• Requires a separate tank sprayer for application, adding to the overall cost
• Contains gamma cyhalothrin, a synthetic pesticide that may raise concerns for those preferring organic solutions
• Must be mixed with water according to label directions, requiring more preparation time than ready-to-use sprays

Ortho BugClear Insect Killer for Lawns and Landscapes Ready-to-Spray, 32 oz

Ortho BugClear Insect Killer delivers thorough pest control that’s particularly valuable for homeowners managing extensive outdoor spaces with diverse insect problems. You’ll appreciate its effectiveness against 235 different bugs, including ants, ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, and spiders that commonly infest lawns and gardens. The ready-to-spray formula connects directly to your garden hose, making application straightforward across up to 5,300 square feet of lawn area. You can use this versatile insecticide on lawns, ornamentals, flowers, trees, shrubs, and vegetables without switching products. It starts killing insects within minutes and provides long-lasting control, helping you maintain healthy outdoor spaces efficiently.

Best For: Homeowners with large outdoor spaces who need comprehensive pest control across lawns, gardens, and landscaping areas.

Pros:

• Targets an impressive 235 different bug species including common pests like ants, ticks, mosquitoes, and fleas
• Ready-to-spray formula connects directly to garden hose for easy application across up to 5,300 square feet
• Works quickly with results starting within minutes and provides long-lasting control

Cons:

• 32 oz size may not be sufficient for multiple treatments on larger properties
• Requires garden hose connection which limits portability for spot treatments
• Chemical insecticide may not be suitable for organic gardening practices

Garden Safe Crawling Insect Killer with Diatomaceous Earth (4 Pounds)

Gardeners seeking an organic, chemical-free solution will find Garden Safe Crawling Insect Killer an excellent choice for controlling grasshoppers naturally. This diatomaceous earth-based insecticide works through mechanical action, killing grasshoppers on contact without harsh chemicals or strong odors. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as you can apply it both indoors and outdoors using hand dusters, power dusters, or squeeze bottles for precise application. The four-pound container provides long-lasting control, making it cost-effective for larger properties or multiple treatments throughout the growing season. Apply the dust directly where grasshoppers congregate for best results.

Best For: Gardeners and homeowners looking for an organic, chemical-free solution to control crawling insects like cockroaches, ants, fleas, bed bugs, and other listed pests both indoors and outdoors.

Pros:

• Chemical-free diatomaceous earth formula that’s odorless and non-staining
• Versatile application methods with hand dusters, power dusters, or squeeze bottles for indoor and outdoor use
• Long-lasting control with a generous 4-pound container that’s cost-effective for larger properties

Cons:

• Requires direct contact with insects to be effective, meaning it won’t eliminate hidden pest populations
• Dust application may need reapplication after rain or heavy moisture when used outdoors
• Can be messy to apply and may require cleanup in living spaces when used indoors

Trifecta Crop Control Natural Pesticide, Fungicide & Insecticide (32 OZ)

For eco-conscious gardeners seeking a natural solution against grasshoppers, Trifecta Crop Control Natural Pesticide, Fungicide & Insecticide delivers maximum strength protection without harsh chemicals. This plant-based formula works by suffocating and dehydrating pests, making it effective against grasshoppers while remaining safe for beneficial insects. You’ll appreciate its fast-drying application that leaves no residue or odors, allowing safe use around edible crops and indoor plants. The biodegradable formula protects your garden without petrochemicals, earning trust from over 7,000 reviewers who rate it 4.2 stars. Regular applications maximize effectiveness, and the 32-ounce size provides ample coverage for continuous pest management throughout your growing season.

Best For: Eco-conscious gardeners who want a natural, chemical-free pesticide that’s safe for use on edible crops and around beneficial insects while effectively controlling various pests including spider mites, aphids, and fungal issues.

Pros:

• All-natural, plant-based formula that’s biodegradable and safe for organic gardening without petrochemicals
• Fast-drying application leaves no residue or odors, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use on edible crops
• Versatile multi-purpose solution that acts as pesticide, fungicide, miticide, and insecticide in one product

Cons:

• Requires daily applications for about a week to be fully effective, especially against spider mite eggs
• Mixed customer results regarding complete pest elimination despite regular usage
• May need understanding of pest life cycles and repeated treatments for optimal results

Earths Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray 32 oz | Safe & Organic Insecticide, Fungicide & Spider Mite Control

Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray stands out as the premier choice for organic gardeners who prioritize environmental safety while tackling grasshopper infestations. This OMRI-listed formula combines thyme, rosemary, clove, and peppermint oils to create a potent botanical defense that’s safe for people, pets, and beneficial pollinators like bees. You’ll appreciate its versatility, as it controls soft-bodied insects while simultaneously preventing fungal diseases like powdery mildew and black spot. Apply the spray during early morning or late evening hours to prevent leaf burn, and consider diluting with water for ideal coverage. With 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 700 reviews, this eco-friendly solution delivers reliable results for both indoor and outdoor plants.

Best For: Organic gardeners seeking an eco-friendly, multi-purpose solution to control soft-bodied insects and fungal diseases on both indoor and outdoor plants while maintaining safety for people, pets, and beneficial pollinators.

Pros:

• OMRI-listed organic formula with botanical oils that’s safe for people, pets, and bees
• Versatile 3-in-1 solution that controls insects, mites, and fungal diseases simultaneously
• Strong customer satisfaction with 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 700 reviews

Cons:

• Mixed results reported with severe infestations, indicating limited effectiveness in extreme cases
• Strong odor that may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals
• Considered expensive compared to conventional alternatives

Safer Insect Killing Soap Concentrate for Plants (5118-6)

Organic gardeners seeking an environmentally responsible solution will find Safer 5118-6 Insect Killing Soap Concentrate particularly effective for controlling grasshoppers and other soft-bodied pests. This OMRI-listed concentrate uses potassium salts of fatty acids, which break down insects’ protective outer shells, causing dehydration and death upon contact. You’ll appreciate that one 16-ounce bottle creates up to six gallons of treatment solution, providing extensive coverage for your garden areas. Apply at the first sign of damage, repeating every 5-7 days while pests remain active, but avoid spraying during peak daylight or when temperatures exceed 90°F to prevent leaf damage.

Best For: Organic gardeners who need an environmentally safe, OMRI-listed insecticide concentrate to control soft-bodied pests like aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites on flowers, vegetables, herbs, and houseplants.

Pros:

• Excellent value with one 16 oz. concentrate making up to 6 gallons of treatment solution for extensive garden coverage
• OMRI Listed for organic gardening and naturally breaks down within 7-10 days without lingering in the environment
• Highly rated by customers with 4.4 out of 5 stars from nearly 6,000 reviews and proven effectiveness against multiple pest types

Cons:

• Requires multiple applications every 5-7 days while pests are present since it’s a contact killer rather than systemic
• Application timing is restricted to avoid peak daylight hours and temperatures above 90°F to prevent potential leaf damage
• May not be effective against hard-bodied insects like grasshoppers, limiting its scope compared to broader-spectrum insecticides

Nisus Niban Granular Bait, Weather-Resistant Boric Acid Formula (4 lbs)

When you’re dealing with multiple pest problems beyond just grasshoppers, Nisus Niban Granular Bait offers an all-inclusive solution that targets various crawling insects with its weather-resistant boric acid formula. This granular bait effectively controls ants, cockroaches, crickets, silverfish, earwigs, slugs, and snails through food-grade attractants that consistently draw pests to the treatment area. The boric acid formula disrupts insects’ digestive systems without creating resistance issues, providing sustainable control without harsh chemical exposure. You’ll appreciate how these granules withstand rain, heat, and sunlight without degrading, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications. Apply 2-4 pounds per 1,000 square feet around structures for all-encompassing pest management.

Best For: Property owners dealing with multiple crawling pest problems who need a long-lasting, weather-resistant solution that works effectively both indoors and outdoors without harsh chemicals.

Pros:

• Targets multiple pest species including ants, cockroaches, crickets, silverfish, earwigs, slugs, and snails with one product
• Weather-resistant formula withstands rain, heat, and sunlight without degrading for long-lasting control
• Uses boric acid that disrupts digestive systems without creating resistance issues, providing sustainable pest control

Cons:

• Not effective against fire ants, limiting its use in areas where fire ants are the primary concern
• Requires significant quantities (2-4 lbs per 1,000 sq ft) which may make treatment of large areas expensive
• Must be stored carefully and kept away from children and pets due to safety considerations

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Insecticide for Grasshoppers

When selecting the right insecticide for your grasshopper problem, I’ll guide you through five critical factors that determine treatment success and garden safety. Understanding active ingredient effectiveness, application methods, coverage requirements, environmental impact, and weather resistance helps you make informed decisions that protect your plants while minimizing ecological harm. These considerations guarantee you choose a product that matches your specific garden conditions, pest pressure levels, and personal preferences for handling chemical treatments.

Active Ingredient Effectiveness

The cornerstone of effective grasshopper control lies in understanding how different active ingredients target these persistent pests. I’ve found that carbaryl stands out as particularly effective, working through ingestion to eliminate grasshoppers quickly and reliably. When I evaluate active ingredients, I consider their specific modes of action since some cause immediate paralysis while others disrupt feeding or reproductive functions over time. Higher concentrations of potent ingredients typically deliver faster knockdown effects, which I recommend when you’re dealing with heavy infestations. However, I’ve learned that environmental factors like temperature and moisture considerably impact how long these ingredients remain effective in your garden, so timing your application becomes essential for ideal results.

Application Method Preferences

Choosing the right application method can make the difference between successful grasshopper control and ongoing frustration in your garden. I’ve found that ready-to-use sprays work best when you need immediate action, eliminating the mixing step that some formulations require. If you prefer targeted treatment, granular baits offer straightforward application directly where grasshopper activity peaks, making them ideal for focused control efforts. Dust formulations create long-lasting protective barriers, though they demand careful, even coverage across plants and surrounding areas. Your timing matters greatly too. Some insecticides deliver best results when applied at the first signs of damage or early infestation stages, while others function effectively as preventive measures before problems develop.

Target Area Coverage

Several important factors determine how much area your chosen grasshopper insecticide can effectively cover, and understanding these specifications helps you purchase the right amount for complete protection. Many modern insecticides treat remarkably large areas, with some products covering up to 6,400 square feet per application, making them ideal for thorough lawn treatments. The formulation type notably impacts coverage patterns, as liquid sprays create broader protective barriers across surfaces while granular products require even distribution for consistent results. I recommend carefully reading product labels to understand specific coverage rates, then calculating your exact area needs to prevent wasteful over-application or ineffective under-treatment. Remember that large spaces often require regular reapplication schedules, since grasshopper populations can rebound quickly after initial treatments wear off.

Environmental Safety Impact

When selecting grasshopper insecticides, environmental safety should rank as your top priority, since protecting beneficial insects and surrounding ecosystems guarantees long-term garden health. I recommend choosing biodegradable formulations derived from natural ingredients, which break down quickly without accumulating in soil or water systems. Look for OMRI Listed products that meet stringent organic certification standards, ensuring minimal harm to beneficial pollinators, predatory insects, and human health. Consider the pesticide’s persistence carefully, as shorter-lived compounds reduce environmental contamination while maintaining effective grasshopper control. Select application methods that allow targeted coverage, minimizing drift to non-target areas where beneficial insects thrive. These environmentally conscious choices protect your garden’s delicate ecosystem balance while effectively managing grasshopper populations.

Weather Resistance Duration

Weather resistance duration determines how long your grasshopper insecticide maintains its effectiveness against environmental challenges, making it a critical factor in successful pest management. I’ve found that products with superior weather resistance can withstand rain, intense heat, and UV exposure for weeks without losing their potency. When you’re dealing with persistent grasshopper infestations, you’ll want formulations that offer excellent rainfastness, ensuring your investment doesn’t wash away with the first storm. The active ingredients in weather-resistant insecticides resist breakdown from environmental stressors, providing sustained protection throughout changing conditions. I recommend selecting products that specifically mention extended weather resistance duration, as these formulations will save you time, money, and repeated applications while maintaining consistent grasshopper control.

Plant Compatibility Concerns

Plant compatibility represents one of the most crucial considerations you’ll face while selecting grasshopper insecticides, as the wrong choice can damage your cherished plants more than the pests themselves. I always recommend checking that your chosen insecticide’s label specifically mentions safety for your garden‘s plant types, since some formulations can harm delicate blooms or valuable crops. You’ll want to review the active ingredients carefully, as certain chemicals may cause phytotoxicity or unexpected adverse reactions in sensitive varieties. Consider the application method too, since some products require dilution or specific spraying techniques to protect foliage and flowers. I suggest conducting a patch test on a small plant section before full application, allowing you to monitor for negative effects while following proper waiting periods for watering and reapplication.

Pet and Human Safety

Before you apply any grasshopper insecticide, prioritizing the safety of your family and pets becomes absolutely essential for responsible pest management. I recommend selecting products specifically labeled as safe for household use, which undergo rigorous testing to minimize health risks. You’ll find that natural or organic formulations typically pose fewer dangers than synthetic alternatives, making them excellent choices for families with children or sensitive pets.

Pay close attention to re-entry intervals on product labels, as these specify how long treated areas remain off-limits after application. Different application methods, whether sprays, granules, or dust formulations, carry varying safety profiles that affect when you can safely return to treated spaces. Always follow manufacturer guidelines precisely, ensuring proper protective equipment during application while maintaining effective grasshopper control without compromising your family’s wellbeing.

Treatment Timing Considerations

When you’re dealing with grasshopper infestations, understanding the perfect timing for insecticide applications can mean the difference between successful control and disappointing results. I recommend applying treatments during morning or late evening hours, when grasshoppers remain less active and more likely to encounter the insecticide. Early application proves vital, as treating these pests at first signs of activity prevents significant crop damage.

You’ll achieve better results by targeting grasshopper nymph stages, since they’re more vulnerable before reaching maturity. Consider local weather patterns carefully, applying insecticides at least 24 hours before expected rainfall for best effectiveness. Regular monitoring of grasshopper populations remains essential, as their rapid reproduction rates often require multiple applications throughout the growing season.

On a final note

I’ve shown you eight powerful insecticides that effectively control grasshopper populations, from fast-acting carbaryl formulations to organic plant-based options. Whether you choose dust, liquid, or granular applications, success depends on proper timing and thorough coverage of affected areas. Remember to read all product labels carefully, follow safety guidelines, and consider environmental impact when making your selection. With the right insecticide and application technique, you’ll protect your garden from grasshopper damage successfully.