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Horticultural Nutrients & Pest Control

Organic fertilizers, soil testing, and pest management solutions

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Growing Bromeliads For Terrariums Indoors

Best Lights For Growing Terrarium Plants

The products on this page are about as natural & mild as you can get while still maintaining product effectiveness. For the most part, terrarium plants and houseplants require very little in terms of available nutrients. A little bit of balanced nutrient solution goes a really long way with the majority of terrarium plants in our experience. That being said, it's important to understand a little bit about the NPK ratings listed on plant nutrient packaging. We'll skim over the details below.

(N) Nitrogen promotes healthy leaves & vegetation, and is considered the most important element for supporting healthy plant growth via formation of proteins within the plant. It supplies plants with the energy necessary for healthy photosynthesis, as it's one of the basic components of chlorophyll. Nitrogen supports healthy leaf production, and helps to speed up general plant growth. A plant suffering from nitrogen deficiency may suffer from pale leaves, yellowing/browning foliage, and wilting.*

(P) Phosphorus is important for early plant & seedling development, as it helps support growth of a healthy root system. From what we understand, a little phosphorus in the early stages of growth is important. In houseplants, phosphorus toxicity can occur when levels are too high in the soil, so we recommend going easy on this particular element. A little goes a long way! A plant suffering from phosphorus deficiency may suffer from stunted growth or dull coloration.*

(K) Potassium / Potash aids in flower/fruit formation, and helps plants to grow by activating many different enzymes involved in plant growth. Simply put, potassium helps plants utilize water, resist periods of dryness, and adjust to other environmental stresses. A plant suffering from potassium deficiency may suffer from curled leaves, yellowing, and a general lack of vitality.*

* Please Note: The #1 cause of discoloration & poor growth in terrariums is a lack of sufficient lighting. Always check to ensure your plants are receiving adequate levels of PAR Light. The #2 cause of poor plant performance are environmental issues. (Low humidity/high heat) The #3 cause is a poor substrate quality. Only after all of those issues are addressed would we recommend considering "lack of nutrients" as the cause!

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Cute Farms Tropical Plant Fertilizer
Cute Farms Tillandsia Fertilizer
Cute Farms Trop Fert.
Cute Farms Tilly Fert.
Diatomaceous Earth
Flying Pest Trap
Fox Farm Fertilizer
Fox Farm Grow Big Hydro
Fox Farm Grow Big
Hormex Rooting Powder
Measuring Shot Glass
Monterey Pest Treatments
Mosquito Bits BTI
Mycorrhizal Fungi Inoculant
Organocide 3-in-1
Physan 20
Seabright Insect Traps
Sticky Stakes
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Cute Farms Exotic Tropical Plant Fertilizer

A natural general-use fertilizer for houseplants

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NEHERP Staff Description:
The Cute Farms brand was recommended to us by a customer, and we've been using it in house since we discovered the brand in 2020. We've had good luck with it for houseplants displayed in our homes & offices, as well as for plants in our grow rooms. It's also cheaper than the (less natural) off-the-shelf sprays at garden centers! The bottle recommends once weekly use, but most we typically only offer nutrients once every 2 weeks at home, since most of the plants we work with have very low nutritional requirements. In our experience, a little bit goes a long way. Try it out, and see what works best for your particular plants!

Note: This product is recommended for houseplant use, not marked for use in live vivariums housing animals.

Manufacturer Description:
Cute Farms is a family owned an operated business. Our plant fertilizer products will help your plants flourish and thrive. Gentle weekly use formula made specifically for growing healthy exotic and tropical plants and flowers including Orchids, Lilies, Ferns, Terrariums, Monstera, Palms, Anthurium, Croton, Dracaena, Dracaena Marginata, and Snake Plants. NPK:.02-.02-.02 Gentle enough to spray directly onto air plants. Includes a fine mist atomizer spray bottle. Each 4oz of solution feeds plants for 3 months.

$12.95/ea 8oz Bottle

9% Off!
$11.78/ea 8oz Bottle

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Inventory is low, but we are expecting a shipment to arrive within 3-5 business days. Order now, and we'll ship as soon as we're able!

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Cute Farms Tillandsia Fertilizer

A natural nutrient spray for Tillandsias

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NEHERP Staff Description
This product was recommended to us by a customer, and we've had good luck using it on our Tillandsias since we discovered the brand in 2020. While we used to mix our own Tillandsia fertilizer, we've now switched over exclusively to using Cute Farms brand. In our experience it seems to work just as well with far less effort for the plants we keep in our store and at our homes, and the price is at least as good as any of the (often less natural) mainstream options. Try it out, and see what works best for your particular plants!

Note: This product is recommended for houseplant use, not marked for use in live vivariums housing animals.

Manufacturer Description
Cute Farms is a family owned an operated business. We offer the best Tillansia air plant fertilizer products in the industry. Our plant fertilizer products will help your plants flourish and thrive. This is a gentle weekly use formula food for Tillandsia plants. Made for air plants with an NPK:.02-.02-.02 Gentle enough to spray directly onto air plants. Includes a fine mist atomizer spray bottle. Each 4oz of solution feeds air plants for 3 months.

Small 4oz Large 8oz

$9.95/ea 4oz Bottle

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$8.85/ea 4oz Bottle

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Small 4oz Large 8oz

$12.95/ea 8oz Bottle

5% Off!
$12.30/ea 8oz Bottle

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Diatomaceous Earth

OMRI listed chemical-free crawling insect killer

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NEHERP Staff Description:
As far as "bags of stuff that kills insects" goes, Diatomaceous Earth is relatively mild. Rather than relying on some nasty chemical, Diatomaceous Earth works mechanically. Frankly it's a bit unpleasant to think about, but basically it's such a fine powder that it cuts-up the insects at their joints as they walk through it. In short, it's equal parts effective and brutal. :-) We consider DE good choice for use around areas where mites may be an issue. (Not recommended for use around live animals!)

Manufacturer Description:
This organic pest control formula is ideal as a bed bug killer or for virtually all crawling insects. The efficient nature of this organic pest control product makes it the most economical and convenient solution to the wide array of garden annoyances on the market! This product bears the prestigious OMRI-listed seal as well as the USDA National Organic Program compliant for use in organic gardening seal, certifying this product is organic. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a dust-like product that contains the crushed fossilized remains of diatoms. The dust is ingested by the bed bug or other crawling insect, or as the insect crosses through the powder, the DE will cut their exoskeleton, causing them to dehydrate and die. Insects cannot develop a resistance to it, since there are no chemicals to which they can build up an immunity. If the area where the Diatomaceous Earth is applied becomes wet, it will need to be reapplied. Diatomaceous Earth is effective as a bed bug killer, flea killer, and crawling insect killer. Safer Brand Ant and Crawling Insect Killer Powder with Diatomaceous Earth is made from a patented formula containing amorphous diatomaceous earth, known as silicon dioxide. This particular type of Diatomaceous Earth is derived from fresh water sources and is NOT the same as Diatomite DE which can be derived from unnatural sources and has been linked to cancer. Shop confidently knowing that Safer brand is OMRI listed and is Amorphous Diatomaceous Earth.

$12.49/ea 4lb Bag

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Flying Pest Trap

Perfect for catching fungus gnats, fruit flies, and other flying critters (No zapping or chemicals!)

Fly Trap For Fungus Gnats, Fruit Flies, and more

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NEHERP Staff Description
We use these in our grow room, our showroom, and even at home. This silent-running vacuum-based sticky trap is super effective for catching tiny flying creatures like Fungus Gnats, Fruit Flies, and more. Unlike some other models, the mesh on this one is small enough to prevent even the smaller fungus gnats from escaping. It works by luring the flies using it's built-in UV light, which is placed directly above the area of suction. Once it sucks a fly in, it pushes it through an escape-resistant cone and directly onto a round sticky trap. When the trap is full, just pop open the bottom and swap-out the sticky trap. Each sticky trap disc usually lasts for months, depending on how many flies are being dealt with. If flies are bugging you, this nifty little gadget can help!

Gnat & Fly
Trap Device Replacement
Sticky Traps

$29.99/ea Fly Trap

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$26.99/ea Fly Trap

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Fly Trap, Power Cord, 6 Replaceable Traps

Gnat & Fly
Trap Device Replacement
Sticky Traps

$2.49/4-Pack Replacement Sticky Traps

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$2.24/ea Replacement
Sticky Traps

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4-Pack Replacement Sticky Traps ($0.62/ea)

4-Pack Replacement Sticky Traps ($0.56/ea)

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Fox Farm Fertilizer

A high quality & easy to use organic fertilizer

Fox Farm Fertilizer For Terrarium Plants 4-5-3

Fox Farm Fertilizer For Terrarium Plants 4-3-4

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NEHERP Staff Description:
Finally an organic dry fertilizer that's easy to use & inexpensive! At NEHERP we started relying on these back in 2019/2020, and have since switched most of our growing operation to using these as our primary sources of nutrients. Each fertilizer is OMRI Certified Organic, and the manufacturer recommends mixing-in roughly 1-2 tablespoons of fertilizer per gallon of potting soil. At NEHERP, we typically use the the Jumpstart or Acid Loving fertilizers at roughly 1/2 to 1 tablespoon per gallon as a great way to start off terrarium plants without risk of burning plants. (Aeschynanthus, Begonias, Callisia, Codonanthe, Columnea, Cyanotis, Dischidia, Ficus, Microgramma, Pellionia, Peperomia, Selaginella, etc) Some of the more tolerant houseplant style species we grow rely on the slightly stronger "All Purpose" mix. (Epipremnum, Hoya, Monstera, Nematanthus, Philodendron, Pilea, Sansevieria, Tradescantia, etc) When in doubt, use less!

Most plants in our hobby don't require a ton of excess nutrients to thrive!

Note: This product is recommended for houseplant use, not marked for use in live vivariums housing animals.

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Manufacturer Description:
All Purpose 6-4-5
Happy Frog All-Purpose is a ready-to-use blend of fertilizers and soil microbes that delivers nutrition where your plants need it most. Mycorrhizal fungi are included to help increase root efficiency, which may enhance nutrient uptake and water absorption. Recommended for vegetable gardens, annual and perennial flower gardens, ornamental plantings, and all types of container gardening. OMRI Listed

Manufacturer Description:
Acid Loving 4-5-3
FoxFarm's Acid Loving Plants Fertilizer provides gentle slow-release nutrition for plants that require a low pH. Specifically formulated for use acid loving plants. This blend of fertilizers and microorganisms delivers nutrition where your plants need it most. Mycorrhizal fungi are included to help increase root efficiency, which may enhance nutrient uptake and water absorption. OMRI Listed

Manufacturer Description:
Jump Start 3-4-3
Happy Frog® Jump Start Fertilizer is formulated for use on transplanted seedlings and re-potted container plants. This proprietary mix of fertilizers supplies phosphorus, a nutrient necessary for the early stages of plant growth. It also contains calcium which may help build stronger cell walls and boost the plant’s ability to resist disease. Mycorrhizal fungi are included to help increase root efficiency, which may enhance nutrient uptake and water absorption. OMRI Listed® and Registered CDFA Organic Input Material.

6-4-5
"All Purpose" 4-5-3
"Acid Loving" 3-4-3
"Jump Start"

$14.99/ea 6-4-5

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$12.74/ea 6-4-5

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6-4-5
"All Purpose" 4-5-3
"Acid Loving" 3-4-3
"Jump Start"

$14.99/ea 4-5-3

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$12.74/ea 4-5-3

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6-4-5
"All Purpose" 4-5-3
"Acid Loving" 3-4-3
"Jump Start"

$16.99/ea 3-4-3

15% Off!
$14.44/ea 3-4-3

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Fox Farm Grow Big Hydroponic Plant Food (3-2-6)

The most popular top-performing hydroponic nutrient on the market!

Best Inexpensive Nutrient For Hydroponic Jars, Hydroponic Vases, and Hydroponic Systems

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NEHERP Staff Description:
Fox Farm is probably one of the most trusted brands in modern horticulture, and we've had a lot of luck with their products over the past few years. This "blue bottle" plant nutrient was specifically recommended to us by our team member Mike W, who had used it successfully numerous times. Our initial impression is extremely solid, and we're glad to bring a new type of simple hydroponic fertilizer into our lineup. For more traditional setups, the instructions recommend using 2tsb per gallon for recirculating hydroponic systems, 3tsp per gallon for heavy feeding, or 1/2tsp per gallon for supplemental nutrients.

For Hydroponic Houseplant Jars & Vases:
A lot of folks have been cycling through our showroom looking for plants which do well grown hydroponically in jars or vases. (Epipremnum, Philodendron, Scindapsus, Tradescantia, etc) For specific advice on this super-simple style of keeping houseplants, there are a ton of YouTube videos to consider. In standard jar/vase hydro setups, we usually recommend changing the water every 7-10 days, and treating the plant to nutrients roughly once every 3'rd water change. For jar and vase style houseplant hydroponics setups, we usually start around 1tsp per gallon of solution. (Or around 1/4tsp for 32oz) Remember to use dechlorinated water, as the chlorine/chloramine in tap water can be problematic for plant growth!

Manufacturer Description:
Based on FoxFarm's popular Grow Big Liquid Plant Food, Grow Big Hydroponic Liquid Plant Food is a liquid concentrate fertilizer specifically designed for hydroponic use. Grow Big Hydroponic contains earthworm castings, Norwegian kelp and essential micronutrients to support vigorous vegetative growth. FoxFarm's special brew is designed to enhance plant size and structure, allowing for more abundant fruit, flower and bud development.

$18.99/ea

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$16.90/ea

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Makes 32-192 gallons of solution depending on concentrations!

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Fox Farm Grow Big Plant Food (6-4-4)

One of the most popular nutrients on the market!

Best Inexpensive Nutrient For Planted Terrariums

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NEHERP Staff Description:
This is the Grow Big concentrate most appropriate for soil-based applications, while the other version is mostly geared toward hydroponic applications. For uninhabited terrariums, we dilute this nutrient to half of what the bottle recommends and apply conservatively. Growth is absolutely spectacular for having such mild contents. A little goes a long way!

Manufacturer Description:
Get your garden going with Grow Big®, our liquid concentrate fertilizer for lush vegetative growth. FoxFarm's special brew is designed to enhance plant size and structure, allowing for more abundant fruit, flower and bud development. It is formulated with a low pH to maintain stability in storage and keep micronutrients available.

$17.99/ea

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$15.99/ea

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Makes 32-192 gallons of solution depending on concentrations!

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Hormex Rooting Powder

Increases cloning success during propagation

Hormex Rooting Hormone For Terrarium Plants

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Manufacturer Description:

Hormex Rooting Hormone Powder is used to root new plants from cuttings easily. One aspect of cloning that is often overlooked is the speed at which the cuttings root. Speed is a huge factor in successful cloning because the faster a cutting roots, the faster it can be moved to the vegetative stage of growth and avoid potential issues. Our rooting powders work great with rockwool, coco, peat moss, soil and all other grow mediums. We use only premium ingredients for the healthiest plants possible. Hormex products are used by some of the most successful growers and have been featured in many national publications over the years. Let's make sure you have the right strength for your plants. Hormex products have been proven by professionals and university studies to have the highest cloning success rate compared to other methods!

Instructions For Use:

1) Moisten base of cutting with clean water or quickly dip in Hormex Vitamin B1 and Hormone Concentrate. Shake off excess moisture.
2) Dip base of cuttings into Hormex Rooting Powder.
3) Tap cutting to remove excess powder.
4) Plant treated cuttings in rooting media, being careful not to rub off rooting powder when planting.

Pro Tips:

1) Remember to keep your grow medium slightly moist but not soaked and keep your new plants warm and in bright light, but out of direct sunlight. Many cuttings will also benefit from added humidity. This can be done by using a rooting cube tray with dome or even a clean clear plastic bag or container with a few small holes. Avoid letting the plastic touch the cutting.
2) Once the cuttings have developed roots, which can take anywhere from 5 - 12 days depending on the plant variety, replant them in another container with moist potting soil or other grow medium. To identify whether roots have formed or not, pull lightly on the plants. If they pop right out, they are not ready. If you feel some resistance, go ahead and repot.
3) Never place unused rooting powder back in container to prevent possible contamination. While not common, it is best to avoid this variable.

$11.99/ea

20% Off!

$9.59/ea

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Measuring Shot Glass

The perfect way to measure-out nutrients & concentrates

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NEHERP Staff Description:
These (real glass) shot glasses are marked with measurements for tablespoons, teaspoons, ounces, and milliliters. Use it to measure-out nutrients, cleaners, and other concentrates responsibly. (Dishwasher safe!)

$3.49/ea

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Monterey Pest Treatments

Three extremely effective pest management tools

Monterey Spinosad Terrarium Treatment For Thrips

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NEHERP Staff Editorial Description:
Garden Insect Spray

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

Spinosad is a natural substance made from a soil-dwelling Actinomycetes bacterium which is toxic to a highly targeted number of insects. This brand of Spinosad (Monterey Garden Insect Spray) is OMRI Organic, safe for "next day harvest" (for food), and is highly selective. This organic product is effective against common pests like Thrips, Leafminers, Spider Mites, Mosquitoes and Fruit Flies. Despite it's effectiveness, Spinosad is considered very low in toxicity to people and other mammals according to the OSU's fact sheet^{ext. link}. Spinosad's half-life duration on leaves are 2-16 days, and less than one day in water according to the Central Mass. Mosquito Control Project^{ext. link}. In uninhabited terrariums with Springtails and Isopods only, we have see no negative impact on either species' population after application of this product.

Manufacturer Description:

A bacterial product produced by fermentation, can be used on outdoor ornamentals, lawns, vegetables, fruit trees, etc. to control caterpillars, leafminers, codling moth, tent caterpillars, gypsy moth, thrips, borers and more. Fast-acting and odorless. Contains spinosad. OMRI Listed for organic gardening.

NEHERP Staff Editorial Description:
Monterey B.T. Spray

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

Bacillus thuringiensis is a soil-dwelling bacterium, and is the most commonly used natural biological pesticide in the world according to Wikipedia^{ext. link}. It's important to note that this is Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki ("BTK"), not Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis ("BTI"). While BTI works on gnats and mosquitoes, BTK works most effectively on lepidopterans (moths and butterflies). According to the European Food Safety Authority's 2012 peer reviewed study (EFSA Journal 2012;10(2):2540 ^{Ext. link}), "The active components of commercial B. thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki preparations, spores and crystalproteins, are not toxic or pathogenic to humans, plants, and most animals except for larvae of target and non-target species belonging to the insect order Lepidoptera." An excellent tool for ridding plant collections of Indianmeal moth (Plodia interpunctella) and Common Clothes Moths (Tineola bisselliella).

Manufacturer Description:

Kills caterpillar-type insects, but has no effect on birds, earthworms, or beneficial insects such as honeybees and ladybugs, when used as directed. For use on fruits, vegetables, ornamentals and shade trees. Can be used on edible plants up to the day of harvest. OMRI Listed for organic gardening.

NEHERP Staff Editorial Description:
Take Down Spray

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

Pyrethrins are a group of organic compounds derived from Chrysanthemum flowers, which are toxic to insects. This is the strongest pesticide we carry at NEHERP, and is effective against many common pests in plant collections like Thrips, Mites, Mealybugs, Fungus Gnats, and Aphids. Despite it's effectiveness, pyrethrins are low in toxicity to people and other mammals according to the national pesticide information center^{ext. link}. The best part is Pyrethrin has just a 12.9 hour half life on soil surfaces exposed to sunlight, or just 2.2-9.5 days when broken down by microbes in soil according to the NPIC^{ext. link}. Studies have even shown veterinary-grade pyrethrins (not what's sold here) have been a safe and effective treatment for reptile and bird parasites! (Source: Kevin T. Fitzgerald PhD, DVM, DABVP, Kristin L. Newquist BS, AAS, CVT, in Small Animal Toxicology (Third Edition))

Manufacturer Description:

An insecticide made from natural pyrethrin and canola oil. Controls aphids, beetles, mealy bugs, caterpillars, plant bugs, etc. Use on vegetables, fruit trees, houseplants, ornamental plantings such as flowerbeds, groundcovers, shrubs and more. Kills all accessible stages of listed insects, including eggs.

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

$29.99/ea Garden Insect

Effective against Thrips, Leafminers, and Caterpillars

10% Off!

$26.99/ea Garden Insect

Effective against Thrips, Leafminers, and Caterpillars

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1 pint of Garden Insect Spray makes 8 gallons of usable solution

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

$29.99/ea Monterey B.T.

Effective against leaf & needle caterpillars

10% Off!

$26.99/ea Monterey B.T.

Effective against leaf & needle caterpillars

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1 pint of Monterey B.T. makes 24 gallons of usable solution

Garden Insect

Monterey B.T.

Take Down

$32.99/ea Take Down

Effective against Thrips, Gnats, Mites, Mealybug, Aphids, & more

9% Off!

$29.99/ea Take Down

Effective against Thrips, Gnats, Mites, Mealybug, Aphids, & more

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1 pint of Take Down Garden Spray makes 15 gallons of usable solution

Legal Notes:

The information and opinions above do not in any way replace or supersede the restrictions, precautions, directions, or other information on the pesticide label or any other regulatory requirements. Always follow the manufacturer instructions. To comply with regulations, we are unable to offer advice regarding the use of these products in inhabited vivariums or in the vicinity of live animals. These "pint sized" containers are sold for houseplant use, and contain less than 100sq/ft worth of application. (Exemption under CT CGS § 22a-66a) Void where prohibited.

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Mosquito Bits B.T.

The most effective organic Fungus Gnat treatment!

Mosquito Bits BT: The Best Treatment For Fungus Gnats In Vivariums

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NEHERP Staff Description

Bacillus Thurengiensis Israelensis (BTI for short) is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil. In our experience, BTI is simply the best Fungus Gnat control tool available. When we first started using it well over a decade ago, we were shocked at how something so mild could be so incredibly effective. The bacterium found in this product is incredibly targeted, and from what we've seen, has no measurable impact on Springtails or Isopods when used as directed. If you've got fungus gnats in your houseplants or terrarium plant collection, look no further. This brand is marked with directions for use with aquaponics (with live fish), hydroponics, houseplants, garden plants, landscape plants, and mushroom beds. Check out the video above for basic instructions!

Manufacturer Description

The bacteria in Mosquito Bits is lethal to mosquito and fungus gnat larvae and harmless to people, plants, and pets. Harmless to beneficial insects, pets, birds, fish, horses, and livestock. Water your plants with a "tea" made from Mosquito Bits to kill fungus gnat larvae in the soil. Quick acting, starts killing mosquito and fungus gnat larvae within minutes. Simply add a tablespoon per quart of water and apply. Mosquito Bits kills the fungus gnat larvae and breaks the life cycle. Soon you will be back to enjoying your house plants without those annoying gnats.

Note: Manufacturer description taken from product packaging & YouTube instructions

8oz

30oz

$12.99/ea 8oz

13% Off!

$11.29/ea 8oz

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8oz Treats Up To 2,000sq/ft

8oz

30oz

$19.99/ea 30oz

5% Off!

$18.99/ea 30oz

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30oz - Treats Up To 7,500sq/ft

Legal Notes:

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Mycorrhizal Fungi Inoculant

An organic living fungi which boosts plant health!

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NEHERP Staff Description
This OMRI organic product contains a live fungi called Rhizophagus intraradices which has been proven to improve plant growth, benefit root development, and help maintain overall plant health. Over time, this fungi's mycelium (root-like structure) will spread through the soil/substrate, where it can capture various nutrients. The fungus also penetrates the cells and roots of the plant, where it passes moisture and nutrients to the plant in a mutualistic exchange for carbohydrates. Both organisms benefit! This is the simplest inoculant we've tested, and has been one of our growing operation's "secret ingredients" for years. It's a great addition for potted plants, planted terrariums, and for those who propagate & grow their own plants. If you've purchased plants from us since 2015, chances are the plant benefited from cooperation with this beneficial organism. (Also how this fungi may already be present in your substrate!) This particular species has been researched back into the 90s for it's benefits in nutrient cycling, and is an extremely well proven solution. At NEHERP, we mix in about 1 cup of inoculant material for every 25-50 gallons of potting soil we make. Check the instructions below, since a little bit goes a very long way! For reference, other names for this species include Rhizophagus intraradices and Glomus intraradices. For more information about how this works, check out Wikipedia's page on AMF^{ext link.}.

Note: Similar products are advertised elsewhere as "Bioactive Soil Additives", "Bioactive Soil Boosters", etc.

Manufacturer Instructions
Direct Application: Add inoculant material directly around plant roots. (Must contact roots) Set plant, backfill, and water.
Containers: 1-2tbsp/1-3 gallon, 4-6tbsp/5-7 gallon, 1/2 cup/10-20 gallon, 1 cup/25-50 gallon, 2 cups/100 gallon
Sowing Seeds / Propagation: 1/2tsp per cell/plug

Manufacturer Description
Being beneficial organisms, mycorrhizae live on the roots of plants and form a symbiotic relationship. They then extend microscopic straw-like filaments called "hyphae" into the soil with which they extract, transport, and dramatically increase a host plant's supply of nutrients and moisture. Pockets of nutrients and water in the soil which were once unreachable by standard root systems are now made accessible through the "super-mining" effects which mycorrhizae gifts to your plants. Mycorrhizae also release a glue-like substance into the soil (Glomalin) which improves water storage and capacity, leading to lower watering costs. Mycorrhizal fungi are ancient in origin and the benefits are boundless. Pound for pound, mycorrhizae provide plants with the greatest possible benefit for the smallest amount of input. Does not contain any other microbes such as trichoderma or ectomycorrhizae, which have no known direct effect on any vegetables, fruits, flowers, or herbs.

100G Pack 1lb Bag

$6.99/ea 100G Pack

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$5.59/ea 100G Pack

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100G Pack

100G Pack 1lb Bag

$22.49/ea 1lb Bag

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$17.99/ea 1lb Bag

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1lb Bag

Contains non-plant food ingredient(s): Live Rhizophagus intraradices 300 propagules per gram

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Non-Stock Product Recommendation:

Organocide 3-in-1 Garden Spray

An organic insecticide & fungicide for organic production

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NEHERP Staff Recommendation:
There aren't many pesticides & fungicides which are also OMRI Organic and marked as "safe for same day harvest". This is a simple & effective solution for treating plants impacted by most common pests. The new product labeling mentions "Bee Safe", which is nice to know - even if you won't be using it on outdoor plants. It's particularly effective on scale insects and mealybugs. On very rare occasion, we've also used Organocide to help out with the occasional fungal issue, where this product has proven to be equally effective. No product we've seen is this effective while being so mild. (Check out the ingredients list!) Not labeled or recommended for use around live animals, but a good option for houseplants outside of terrariums. Our supplier recently dropped Organocide from our available lineup. Since we're unable to source it for now, Amazon has you covered!

Manufacturer Description:
Organocide is an OMRI listed, nature-safe insecticide and fungicide for organic production. Derived from a unique blend of soybean extract (lecithin), sesame oil and fish oils. Organocide is heavier and more effective than other oils, but safer to the plant. Effective on insects, spider mites, scale insects, and fungus. Soft on beneficial insects including Bees & Butterflies. It will not cause plant burn even when used on hot sunny days! Effective on a wide variety of insects, mites, armored and soft scales and certain fungal diseases like black spot on roses and powdery mildew. Organocide replaces many "hard" synthetic pesticides and is safe enough to spray at harvest time or indoors. (This is the ready to use version)

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Physan 20

A broad range disinfectant, fungicide, virucide, and algaecide

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NEHERP Staff Description:
This is one of the products we use to clean our propagation surfaces, tools, sinks, trays, and domes between uses. Commercial greenhouses and non-animal-contact growers can use Physan 20 to treat a variety of plant ailments. A 16oz bottle of Physan 20 concentrate creates a huge amount of diluted solution, which varies depending on the concentration you are looking for. (Up to 96 gallons of usable solution from 16oz of concentrate!) Instructions are included for various uses, and dilution rates vary depending on your use. Perfect for use with our nifty measuring glass! Not recommended for use near animals, or as a disease treatment directly on plants which will eventually be added to animal-inhabited environments.

Manufacturer Description:
Physan 20 is a broad range disinfectant, fungicide, virucide, and algaecide which effectively controls a wide variety of pathogens on hard surfaces and plants. Its applications include greenhouses, hard surfaces, lawn and turfgrass, seedlings and cut flowers, decorative fountains, pools, birdbaths, and plants. It is an EPA approved concentrate formulated with unique germicidal agents to provide overall protection for your plants and greenhouses. It poses no human or environmental risk when it is used at recommended use levels and according to label instructions. Physan 20 controls disease-spreading organisms which can be carried from plant to plant by using contaminated pots, flats, seed beds, soil, tools and human hands.

$17.99/ea 16oz Concentrate

Creates up to 96 gallons of solution!

See Physan's website for more detailed instructions:
Disease Treatment / Mixing Guide / Hydroponics
MUST BE 18+ TO PURCHASE

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Seabright Flying Insect Sticky Traps

For small greenhouses, shade houses, and similar setups

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NEHERP Staff Description:
These sticky traps are a great choice for chemical free pest protection against numerous flying pests in areas which are used to grow plants. These are larger than the other brand we carry, and are geared towards larger areas.

Manufacturer Description:
Seabright traps and ribbons use Stikem Special, a non toxic odorless adhesive which is very effective. Millions of these traps have been used by alert greenhouse growers, orchardists, universities and vintners. Easy-to-open 4"x7" trap reverse folds to expose 4"x14" sticky (yellow or blue) surface with grid for precision monitoring purposes. Approximately 30 square inch adhesive area. Non-poisonous and weatherproof. Punched with hole and twist-tie provided to easily hang trap in your growing area. Easy to handle and count insects without getting sticky. Best suited for those growing plants in a greenhouse, shade house, or other mid-level growing operation.

Yellow Blue

$6.49/ea Yellow Pack Of 5

This option sold out, others may be available

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Yellow - For Aphids, Gnats, Whitefly

Yellow Blue

$6.29/ea Blue Pack Of 5

This option has sold out!

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Blue - For Thrips & Leafminers

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Sticky Stakes

An excellent choice for eliminating pesky fungus gnats & flying pests

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NEHERP Staff Description:
A great choice for chemical free pest protection against fungus gnats in areas growing vivarium-suitable plants, since they fit inside 7" domes comfortably (shown above right). Also can be added to freshly planted vivariums (before inhabitants are introduced) during the initial acclimation cycle to prevent fungus gnats from establishing a population. Be sure to remove the sticky stakes when misting, and before introducing animals! :-)

Manufacturer Description:
Keep your plants free of annoying pests with this powerful pesticide-free houseplant insect killer solution. The Houseplant Sticky Stakes are ideal for use indoors or outdoors in potted plants. This trap offers an economical and convenient solution to the annoyances of whiteflies, fungus gnats, blackflies, thrips, fruit flies, midges and other flying insects. Contains no pesticides and is fully disposable. This trap works continuously and provides you with long lasting protection for your houseplants. The yellow color of the trap as well as the glue will attract the insects to the potted plants. Stakes are stackable for larger environments.

$5.28-$6.99/ea Pack Of 7
See Volume Discounts In Cart!

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Having Plant Trouble In A Bioactive Terrarium?

We can help troubleshoot!

Neoregelias Growing In Bioactive Terrarium

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Reviewing the most common causes of plants failing to thrive!

Help Growing Plants In Bioactive Terrarium

Useful Supplies For Growing Plants In Live Vivariums

Best Fertilizers For Bioactive Terrariums

Substrate Analysis
Poor substrate is the #1 cause of premature environmental failure, and one of the most common reasons microfauna & plants fail to thrive. This is a common problem with DIY mixes, as well as other blends which don't actually list ingredients or (at least rough) ratios. A properly designed substrate mix will be quick-draining, slightly acidic, have the ability to resist compaction, and should be able to support microfauna & mycorrhizal fungi long-term. Like the original and most proven ABG Mix, all of our NEHERP Substrates contain a mix with over 80% aggregates like like tree fern fiber, fine fir bark, fine hardwood charcoal, calcined clay, and/or cypress mulch. Low-end mixes have far less aggregate material which contributes to premature compaction and a half-dozen other problems. If you are curious, please learn more about our substrates, or see exactly what we'd recommend for your enclosure.

Best Pest Control For Bioactive Terrariums

Animal Safe Fertilizers For Bioactive Terrariums

Animal Safe Fertilizers for Live Vivariums

Lighting Analysis
One of the most common causes of poor plant performance in bioactive terrariums is poor lighting, and the problem is most commonly found with knock-off or low-end LEDs. Our support department has seen dozens of cleverly marketed "grow lights" which have comparatively poor PAR light performance compared to brands like Current, Jungle Dawn, Jungle Hobbies, and Value Grow. Many LEDs which look the same have major differences in measurable PAR & Lux performance due to better brands using higher-end diodes & drivers. If your lighting didn't come from our company and your plants aren't thriving, we recommend comparing the light source to the solutions we recommend, and checking the PAR output of each. (See PAR ratings of every LED we carry towards the bottom of Vivarium Lighting 101) We've been specializing in this stuff since 2009, and customers who use our lighting solutions have an awesome track record of success.

Other Common Problems
• Our substrates, plants, and microfauna are recommended for environments which will sustain a bare minimum of 55% R/H.
• If you are growing NEHERP Moss or Moss Slurry, please check the care sheets for advice. (High humidity & PAR will be required)
• Be sure to place plants (especially Neoregelias & Tillandsias) appropriately. Check Vivarium Construction 101 for suggestions.
• Ensure custom backgrounds are completely cured before adding plants, since the fumes from uncured silicone can kill plants!
• If your enclosure contains an animal which requires spot cleaning, additional fertilization for plants may be necessary.

Helpful Links:

Supporting Articles:
Vivarium Construction 101
Vivarium Construction 102
Viv Lighting 101: PAR Light
Viv Lighting 101: Light Stats
General Plant Care

Related Product Pages:
Bioactive Substrate Kits Vivarium Lighting Kits Live Plants Menu Plant Kits For Sm. Species Plant Kits for Md. Species

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