Instructions for use of the Colorado potato beetle repellent Commander

The Colorado potato beetle is a problem familiar to almost every gardener. Manual pest control is labor-intensive and time-consuming, and doesn't always produce results. Therefore, gardeners are increasingly turning to chemical pesticides. Komandor has become the most popular. This chemical effectively kills the Colorado potato beetle and other insects, and to prevent Komandor from harming people or crops, follow the instructions for use.

Composition and release form of the insecticide Commander

Commander poison against Colorado potato beetles contains imidacloprid, a water-soluble concentrate (200 grams per liter). The product is available in containers depending on the extent of damage:

• in ampoules (1 milliliter);
• in bottles (10, 20 and 100 milliliters);
• in bottles (1 liter);
• in canisters (5 and 10 liters).

Ampoules, vials, and bottles are packaged in bags or blisters, while canisters are packaged in multilayer cardboard. Each packaging option comes with detailed instructions for use.

The effectiveness of the drug

The insecticide Commander achieves its lethal effect thanks to its active ingredient, imidacloprid, a powerful organic poison. The chemical affects insects at a neurotropic level:

• disrupts the function of nerve endings;
• Before death, the beetles experience convulsions that progress to paralysis, and only after this does death occur;
• the chemical destroys not only Colorado potato beetles and their larvae, but also other terrestrial and soil-dwelling insects;
• Complete elimination of pests from the treated area occurs in a matter of minutes.

The principle of action of the product

The poison against plant pests works as follows:

• When applied to seedlings, the product is absorbed into the plant for a long time, poisoning the leaves, stems and roots, making them a deadly weapon for herbivorous insects;
• a small piece of greenery soaked in insecticide is enough to kill the pest;
• the chemical does not lose its effect at high temperatures, direct sunlight or in the rain;
• It remains in the vegetable for a long time, which is why only one treatment per season is enough for protection.

Preparation of working solution

As mentioned, each packaging option comes with detailed instructions on how to properly dilute the product with water. There are different methods for controlling each type of insect. So, to combat the Colorado potato beetle, you need to:

• for 100 square meters of potato plantings you will need to dilute 1 milliliter of chemical in 5-10 liters of water;
• From the suggested amount of liquid, you must independently determine the required volume, depending on the degree of infestation by beetles and the number of potato sprouts that have appeared;
• It is not advisable to exceed the permissible norm so as not to harm the condition and balance of the soil.

Rules for using the drug

In accordance with the instructions, the following rules for using the drug should be observed:

• Vegetables are treated with a pre-prepared solution in calculated proportions, using a sprayer;
• During treatment, it is necessary to thoroughly spray each potato bush, at least 2/3, including those where there are few or no insects.
• Disinfection should be carried out during a period when bees are not active, since the chemical is also dangerous for honey-bearing insects;
• It is prohibited to carry out treatment less than a month before harvesting.

Important! Komandor is intended for treating vegetables during the growing season or when planting tubers in the ground. For disinfecting seedlings, use Komandor+.

Safety precautions when using

Since the Commander is extremely toxic, to avoid unpleasant consequences, one should not neglect personal protection of the body:

• Protective clothing should be put on even while mixing the preparation - rubber gloves and boots, closed clothing, a mask or respirator, glasses;
• It is strictly forbidden to dilute the chemical in food containers;
• During the processing of potatoes, do not consume food or liquids, or smoke, so that the poison does not get inside;
• After completing the procedure, you must thoroughly wash your hands and face with soap, rinse your mouth with toothpaste, take a shower and wash your hair;
• Work clothes should be washed separately from other linens, boots and gloves should be washed thoroughly with soap or cleaning agent;
• If there is any remaining solution, it is strictly forbidden to pour it into the ground or any body of water, since the Commander is also dangerous for aquatic life.

First aid

Komandor can be harmful not only to insects but also to humans, so it's crucial to follow safety precautions. If the product does come into contact with skin, mucous membranes, the respiratory tract, or is ingested, don't panic, but remove all protective clothing and administer first aid:

• If the product gets on your skin, soak it up with cotton wool, gauze or a cloth without rubbing it into the skin, then thoroughly wash the affected area with a soap or soda solution for at least 10 minutes;
• If in eyes, rinse for at least 15 minutes;
• if inhaled, wash in the shower and go outside for at least 1.5 hours;
• If swallowed, artificially empty the stomach until completely empty, drink plenty of water and call a doctor.

You should seek medical attention immediately if you have any contact with the chemical or if signs of poisoning appear, without delay or self-medication.

Storage rules

Store Commander in a cool, dark place, out of reach of children and animals, and away from food and medications. The shelf life is 3 years; after this period, use is strictly prohibited.

Also, do not store the diluted solution. It should be used immediately after preparation.

Compatibility with other drugs

The chemical can be mixed with substances containing:

• insecticides;
• fungicides;
• biopreparations;
• seed dressings;
• growth stimulants and regulators.

Before mixing with each product, perform a preliminary test by mixing a small amount of Commander with the chosen substance. If a precipitate forms, do not use together. Mixing with alkaline-containing products is strictly prohibited.

Insecticide analogues

If you can't find Commander on store shelves, you can use its analogues, which are just as effective:

• Colorado;
• Borey;
• Bison;
• Tanrek;
• Coragen;
• Prestige.

Customer reviews

Irina, Perm

"I first encountered Colorado potato beetles about four years ago. During that first year, I tried all sorts of treatments, but they didn't help much. The result was tragic—I lost almost my entire crop to the voracious insects. Then a neighbor recommended Komandor. I was hesitant for a long time—the price was too low for so many grandiose promises. But, remembering the lost harvest, I finally bought the poison. The following year, when I planted potatoes and discovered striped beetles, I treated them according to the instructions. The result was astounding—by morning, the soil was covered in dead bugs, and they no longer bothered my beds. Now I regularly use Komandor whenever I spot pests."

Alexey, Yaroslavl

"My garden was once infested with Colorado potato beetles. I immediately began searching for various powerful products that could eliminate the problem. On a forum, I came across a review about a certain Komandor. After scouring the internet for more information, I was determined to purchase this product. Taking safety precautions and covering all areas of my body tightly, I treated the area, diluting the chemical as directed. I couldn't believe my eyes—by evening, all the beetles were dead, and the potatoes were back to normal. After that, the pests haven't dared to bother my crops. If they change their minds, now I know the solution."

Nina Valentinovna, Samara

"When Colorado potato beetles were discovered in my potato beds, my frustration knew no bounds. Knowing from my own experience as a parent that getting rid of these striped pests is difficult, I was ready to say goodbye to my harvest. When I shared the problem with my daughter, she brought me some Komandor pesticide. After reading the instructions and learning how toxic it was, I was terrified to use it, but my desire for a bountiful harvest prevailed. Having prepared myself according to the instructions, covering my eyes, mouth, nose, and skin, I set out to combat the insects. After spraying the pesticide and washing myself thoroughly, I waited for the results, which were not long in coming. The beetles dropped dead literally within minutes, and the next day, they were just a memory. Now I regularly use Komandor when I notice pests not only on my potatoes but also on other vegetables."

Nikolai Petrovich, Tver

"I learned about Komandor online, but I had a hard time believing the reviews—they were all so full of magical results. However, I took note, and as it turns out, it was worth it. Less than a week later, Colorado beetles attacked my potato crops. So, without thinking, I went to the store and bought this miracle product, surprised by the low price. The salesperson told me to strictly follow the instructions, which I did. After protecting all areas of my body and, just in case, putting a cap on my head, I applied the treatment and then washed thoroughly. Exactly 24 hours later, there was no trace of the beetles or larvae. The potato leaves were clean and healthy, and the treatment had no effect on the quality or quantity of the harvest. Now I always use Komandor, combining it with the growth stimulant Epin. Thanks to this combination, the potatoes grow abundantly and healthy."