FAQ

How does it work?
It's a contact stomach poison.

What is the active in the Killa range?
Bifenthrin.

Does Bifenthrin contaminate ground water through leaching?
No.

Is Bifenthrin a residual chemical?
Yes. But, it has a short "half life" in soil.

Is Bifenthrin absorbed by plant foliage?
No.

Why is sand used as the carrier?
It is more effective as the Bifenthrin is dispersed more efficiently.

Does it have an odour?
Yes. But, it is not unpleasant.

Gardening Solution
Ant Killa

What is the active ingredient? The Richgro range of Ant, Spider & Cockroach Killers have Permethrin as an active. It is a synthetic, man-made insecticide, whose chemical structure is based on natural pyrethrum. The so-called pyrethroid insecticides were developed to match or exceed the effectiveness of natural pyrethrum but be more stable in sunlight. Permethrin is a popular insecticide and widely used in a number of ways to control insects. How does it work? Permethrin can affect insects if they eat it or touch it. Permethrin affects the nervous system in insects, causing muscle spasms, paralysis and death. Which insects does this range kill? Ants, Bed Bugs, Carpet Beetles, Clothes Moths, Cockroaches, Fleas, Silverfish, Spiders. Is it safe for kids and pets? As per label directions, DO NOT apply directly on humans, pets, exposed food, food preparation areas or food utensils. DO NOT spray over open fish tanks. Gardening Solution: Ant, Spider & Cockroach Killer (Concentrate), Ant, Spider & Cockroach Killer (RTU)  

Are Richgro bags recyclable and which bin would I use? All our bags are made of recyclable material – a combination of Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)  and Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) . However those type of bags have few collection points. Check with your local council to see if they collect LDPE plastics. Not all councils accept those due to the nature of their recycling system – some bags can damage machines inside sorting facilities and even cause some machines to break down, which could prevent other materials from being recycled. IF your council does accept these plastics, please ensure that you empty the contents and wash the bags before placing in any recycling bin. Many supermarkets have special plastic bag recycling bins near the customer entry. Plastic bags placed in these bins can be recycled because they don't need to be sorted and separated from other types of recycling. Plastic bags placed in these recycling bins must be clean. Be careful to check which bags are accepted as some bins accept only the light LDPE grocery shopping bags, while others may also accept heavier plastics.

Can I use Happy Roses on other plants?
Yes. Happy Roses can be used all over the garden, especially on plants with waxy leaves. On sensitive looking leaves do a plant test patch first.

Does Happy Roses kill aphids? 
It is not designed to kill aphids, but it does act as an effective repellent. To kill insects, use Beat-A-Bug Naturally Based Insect Spray.

What is the best way to control black spot and other fungal diseases on my roses? 
General good gardening practices are always beneficial. For instance, roses should be planted at a distance apart at which they do not touch each other; watering should never be done from above, as drops spread fungal disease; roses should get at least six hours of sunlight per day; they need a well fertilised soil with plenty of organic matter (sheep manure is particularly good) and they should receive frequent deep watering.

In addition to the above, Happy Roses should be applied regularly. Naturally occurring sulphur and seaweed extract in Happy Roses controls existing black spot while the general qualities of the product boost plant immunity against further attack. If at any stage black spot should re-occur, remove damaged foliage and discard or burn.

Gardening Solution
 Beat-A-Bug Happy Roses

Can I use it all over the garden?
Yes. Beat-A-Bug can be used on all vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, roses, greenhouses, and glasshouses.

Does Beat-A-Bug kill insects or just repel them? 
It gives complete knockdown of insects on contact, the natural oils in Beat-A-Bug also act as a repellent . It is a fully registered agricultural pesticide -APVMA Approval number 48765/56863

For how long does the garlic and chilli repel insects? 
Although environmental factors (pest pressure, rainfall, etc) make it difficult to specify exactly the duration of efficacy, as a general guide we recommend re-applying every two to three weeks.

How effective are the rain-fastening properties of the plant oil? 
As a general guide, the plant oil will remain effective after light to moderate rainfall.

How do I avoid harming beneficial insects?
By applying late in the evening and avoiding contact with beneficial insects, you will not harm them. This is because the active insecticidal ingredient, pyrethrum, will de-nature within five hours of spraying, rendering it harmless. The garlic and chilli remain as repellents but do not kill insects, harmful or otherwise.

Which insects does Beat-A-Bug kill? 
Earwigs, white flys, thrips, leafhoppers, ants, aphids, cabbage moths, and all other common insect pests.

What is the plant food in Beat-B-Bug and what is it for? 
The plant food in Beat-A-Bug is a fish fertiliser which gives plants a boost at site of insect attack. It is not intended to replace normal plant fertilising regime.

Is there anything to look out for when applying Beat-A-Bug?
Beat-A-Bug should not be applied in the heat of the day as it can burn leaves. Avoid spraying open flowers. The solution can be irritating to delicate membranes so avoid inhalation and contact with skin and eyes.

Does Beat-A-Bug kill fleas? 
We cannot recommend that you spray Beat-A-Bug on dogs and cats, however it is useful for killing fleas on pets' bedding, around kennels, and in sandy areas where fleas breed.

Gardening Solution
Beat-A-Bug Naturally Based Insect Spray

Why should I try BEAT-A-WEED? Because it will get rid of those weeds as effectively as any other weedkiller on the market and will do so without harming children, pets or the environment. How does it work? It works by dehydrating the plant burning it from the top down. Results are seen within hours if applied as directed with leaves browning and wilting. What is it made of? Natural actives acetic acid and sodium chloride, both harmless to animals and humans. When will I see results? Within hours if applied as directed. Will it harm me? It is natural, however we still recommend usual general safety precautions: wear rubber gloves and keep away from eyes. Can I use it in my vegetable garden? Yes, you can. But, be careful not to spray the leaves of your vegetables as they may get burnt. As BEAT-A-WEED is totally natural no harmful chemicals will be absorbed by the vegetables. Will the weeds grow back? BEAT-A-WEED completely dehydrates the weeds from the root up eliminating any chance of regrowth when applied as directed. Why should I switch from my current brand? Because BEAT-A-WEED will work as effectively if not better. It is not poisonous like the chemical based weedkillers and is also not detrimental to the environment.  BEAT-A-WEED is now available in 3L Powerspray & 1L Concentrate forms. Gardening Solution Beat-A-Weed Natural Weedkiller

Why can't be it used in certain states for some applications e.g TAS & NSW?  States have different laws, which govern how registered products can be used ("control-of-use laws"). If you wish to use the product against label direction it is advisable to contact the APVMA (Australian Pesticides & Veterinary Medicines Authority) to see if there is a need for a permit application. APVMA contact number- Permits for trial or off-label use of chemicals -: (02) 6271 6384 How often should it be sprayed on the plants to treat a grasshopper problem?  Spray insects when first seen and repeat as required. Insects die on contact, or if they eat the leaf that has been sprayed. Gardening Solution Caterpillar, Grasshopper & Millipede Insecticide

Why should I buy EZI-WET?
EZI-WET guarantees that you make optimum use of your outdoor water at all times as it gets the water down to the plants' roots for a healthy and hydrates the garden.

Is it gentle on the environment?
Yes it is. EZI-WET is aquatic safe and has no adverse effects on earthworms like some other soil wetters do. The granular is also made of environmentally friendly organic granules.

What sort of results can I expect?
You will see the water being absorbed more effectively in the soil and your garden, lawn or potted plants will look greener and healthier.

Why should I switch from my current brand?
Because EZI-WET has those key features that sets it apart from the rest and it bears the independent Smart Approved WaterMark accreditation for proven water saving results.

Why should I buy products that bear the Smart Approved Watermark logo if I want a genuine water saving product?
Smart Approved WaterMark is Australia's outdoor water saving labelling program for products and services that help to reduce water use around the home. Products and services with the Smart Approved WaterMark label have been carefully tested and then assessed by an independent technical expert panel, so you can be sure of substantial water savings when using an approved product. Visit http://www.smartwatermark.info/home/default.asp for more information.

Gardening Solution
EZI-WET soil wetter

How does it work?
It's a contact stomach poison.

What is the active in the Killa range?
Bifenthrin.

Does Bifenthrin contaminate ground water through leaching?
No.

Is Bifenthrin a residual chemical?
Yes. But, it has a short "half life" in soil.

Is Bifentrhin absorbed by plant foliage?
No.

Why is sand used as the carrier?
It is more effective as the Bifenthrin is dispersed more efficiently.

Does it have an odour?
Yes. But, it is not unpleasant.

Gardening Solution
Lawn Beetle & Grub Killa

What is the difference between the liquid and granular formula?
The liquid is a chemical based formula whereas the granular only contains iron sulphate as an active ingredient. While they both act as a fertiliser as well as a weed killer, the liquid formula has a much broader range of application but is also more lethal.

Can Lawn Feed as you Weed be used on Buffalo lawns?
The granular formula - yes. But, NOT the liquid formula.

How long after application of the “granular” formula can you start mowing the lawn?
Approximately 7-10 days.

How long must we stay away from the lawn after applying the “granular” formula?
It is imperative to leave the lawn untouched for 2 days and then to water in.

Why leave for two days before watering in the “granular” formula?
So that the iron sulphate can work above the lawn and burn the weeds.

Is the “granular” formula toxic?
It is not toxic as such, but because of the high iron sulphate content (25%) it is hazardous and precautions should be taken as per directions on the bag.

Gardening Solution
Lawn Feed As You Weed

Can I use Moisture Plus Blended Manure in pots?
Never use fresh manure in pots as this can burn the crop/plant. Should you wish to add organic matter, then well-rotted manure or compost is a safe alternative. However, for best results we recommend the use of a potting mix - those are specifically designed to best meet the requirements of plants that grow in pots. Most potting mixes already have a fertiliser included in them and require no further plant food be added.  Here are selection of Richgro's potting mixes for your future selection.

Gardening Solution
Moisture Plus Blended Manure

What does the Australian Standards logo on some potting mixes mean?
The logo was created by a peak non-government standards development body in Australia. It can only be applied to potting mixes that have been independently tested and certified as containing an appropriate mix of nutrients, in a suitable base material, to meet the needs of potted plants.

What is the difference between the red and black Australian standards logo on potting mixes?
There are two 'levels' of certification for potting mixes- black and red Standards Marks.
Black: denotes a 'regular' potting mix that will support plant growth, but may require the addition of particular fertilisers or other nutrient products from time to time, or depending on the species concerned.
Red: denotes a 'premium' potting mix that contains additional nutrients, in many cases eliminating the initial need for fertilisers or nutrients. Premium has a higher air-filled porosity (the percentage of its volume that is air). Premium has a higher water holding capacity (ability of the mix to hold water). Premium has a better wettability (ability of the mix to rewet). Premium has a better nitrogen drawdown Index (available nitrogen).

Gardening Solution
Orchid Regular Grade Potting Mixture

Can it be used on garden beds?
Yes. Same application as any soil conditioner - 1 part Lawn Marvel to 3 parts soil.

Gardening Solution
Organic Lawn Marvel

What does BFA certification mean?
BFA (Biological Farmers of Australia) certification is monitored by "Australian Certified Organic" - Australia's largest certifier and regulator of organic foods and products (over 50%). BFA ensures that products are produced without the use of synthetic chemicals fertilisers or Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and are thus organic.

Gardening Solution
Organic Mushroom Compost

How do using low phosphate fertilisers help the environment? Phosphate is an important element of plant health but if used excessively can be leached into our waterways creating environmental issues such as algal blooms, mal odours, and fish deaths. Gardening Solution PLUS Fruit & Citrus Fertiliser

How do using low phosphate fertilisers help the environment? Phosphate is an important element of plant health but if used excessively can be leached into our waterways creating environmental issues such as algal blooms, mal odours, and fish deaths. Gardening Solution PLUS Garden Complete Fertiliser

How does using low phosphate fertilisers help the environment? Phosphate is an important element of plant health but if used excessively can be leached into our waterways creating environmental issues such as algal blooms, mal odours, and fish deaths. Gardening Solution PLUS Rose, Azalea & Camellia Fertiliser

How does using low phosphate fertilisers help the environment?
Phosphate is an important element of plant health but if used excessively can be leached into our waterways creating environmental issues such as algal blooms, mal odours, and fish deaths.

Gardening Solution
Premium Blood & Bone Based Fertiliser PLUS

What does the Australian Standards logo on some potting mixes mean? The logo was created by a peak non-government standards development body in Australia. It can only be applied to potting mixes that have been independently tested and certified as containing an appropriate mix of nutrients, in a suitable base material, to meet the needs of potted plants. What is the difference between the red and black Australian Standards logo on potting mixes? There are two 'levels' of certification for potting mixes- black and red StandardsMarks. Black: denotes a 'regular' potting mix that will support plant growth, but may require the addition of particular fertilisers or other nutrient products from time to time, or depending on the species concerned. Red: denotes a 'premium' potting mix that contains additional nutrients, in many cases eliminating the initial need for fertilisers or nutrients. Premium has a higher air-filled porosity (the percentage of its volume that is air). Premium has a higher water holding capacity (ability of the mix to hold water). Premium has a better wettability (ability of the mix to rewet). Premium has a better nitrogen drawdown Index (available nitrogen). Gardening Solution Premium Potting Mix

What are Rock Minerals? It is a natural mineral product containing microbes and trace elements. Its use improves soil structure by building soil fertility and allowing the microbes to interact with the soil, capturing nutrients, increasing root growth and protecting from diseases. Where do they come from? This product is manufactured from natural materials that are friendly to the environment. Using volcanic bedrock located deep beneath the surface which has been covered by decaying soil and matter over time, it is gathered, prilled and impregnated with beneficial microbes. This is all manufactured in Australia with the minerals coming from Queensland and blended and bagged in Western Australia. What’s in them? These minerals contain volcanic and sedimentary rock which are full of trace elements and minerals such as Boron (B), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn) Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn) Cobalt (Co) and Molybdenum (Mo), vital for plant health and great for you as well. These Rock Minerals are great homes for Microbes. They have been impregnated with carbon into the Rock Mineral prills. Activated when wet, the Microbes work with the fertiliser and humates in the soil. Difference between Rock Minerals and Rock Dust? Lots of people are claiming that they can use rock dust, which is often left over crusher dust with little mineral value or from other places which has very little elemental value. Rock Minerals are rock elements mined from Volcanic Base and Sedimentary rock. Whilst they are technically different, most people will consider the term the same and hence when asking for rock dust, they often mean Rock Minerals. What are the benefits? • Better soil rich in organics – The microbes work with the soil, creating strong root structures. • Tougher plants better able to resist diseases • More flowers and fuller thick and greener foliage and lawn • Healthier looking plants Have these been proven? Actually for over 20 years these fertilisers have achieved outstanding results in turf growing and maintenance, intensive horticulture, broad acre farming, Amenity horticulture (councils) and home gardens. Being pH Neutral they work in a number of different soils across Australia. Can it be used on Natives? Yes, 50gm per square metres. Is it good for clay soil? Yes, in fact it will help soils work better by holding the nutrients allowing the plant to take it up over time. Also the microbes will break down the clay slowly as the roots develop. Gardening Solution: Rock Minerals Fertiliser & Soil Improver

What does the Australian standards logo on some potting mixes mean? The logo was created by a peak non-government standards development body in Australia. It can only be applied to potting mixes that have been independently tested and certified as containing an appropriate mix of nutrients, in a suitable base material, to meet the needs of potted plants. What is the difference between the red and black Australian Standards logo on potting mixes? There are two 'levels' of certification for potting mixes- black and red Standards Marks. Black: denotes a 'regular' potting mix that will support plant growth, but may require the addition of particular fertilisers or other nutrient products from time to time, or depending on the species concerned. Red: denotes a 'premium' potting mix that contains additional nutrients, in many cases eliminating the initial need for fertilisers or nutrients. Premium has higher air filled porosity (the percentage of its volume that is air). Premium has a higher water holding capacity (ability of the mix to hold water). Premium has a better wettability (ability of the mix to rewet). Premium has a better nitrogen drawdown Index (available nitrogen). Why is Seaweed good for my plants? Organic seaweed contains naturally occurring growth regulators, trace elements, alginates, carbohydrates and vitamins. The natural growth regulators found in seaweed will have a profound effect on root growth and enhance the reproductive capacity of a plant. It will also improves fruit set, increases tolerance to heat, drought and frost conditions, is non toxic and completely safe to use on all plants, all year round. Gardening Solution Seaweed Potting Mix

Can it be used in vegetable gardens?
It can be used in vegetable gardens as the chemical has to be ingested to work and does not release from the pellet.

Gardening Solution:
Snail & Slug Killer Pellets

Why is Richgro Super Phosphate not available in WA? Richgro operates as an environmentally responsible entity and chooses to adhere to the voluntary guidelines for farmers and fertiliser manufacturers set out by the WA Government in the Fertiliser Partnership Agreement. The agreement aims to adopt a range of best-practice techniques and low phosphorus fertilisers within the Swan River catchment primarily to promote reduction in nutrient loss to waterways and wetlands on the Swan and Scott Coastal Plain. Read more on the WA Fertiliser Partnership Agreement.    

What is the active ingredient? Richgro Termite & Ant Killer has Permethrin as an active. It is a synthetic, man-made insecticide, whose chemical structure is based on natural pyrethrum. The so-called pyrethroid insecticides were developed to match or exceed the effectiveness of natural pyrethrum but be more stable in sunlight. Permethrin is a popular insecticide and widely used in a number of ways to control insects. How does it work? Permethrin can affect insects if they eat it or touch it. Permethrin affects the nervous system in insects, causing muscle spasms, paralysis and death. Which insects does it control? Termites, Ants, Bed Bugs, Carpet Pests, Cockroaches, Fleas, Flies & Mosquitoes, Silverfish, Spiders. How is it used for termites? As per label direction, to control termites this product can only be used around outdoor poles, fence posts, palings and stumps as a surface spray. It is not suitable for use as a termite control product in and around buildings. For these situations, seek the advice of a professional pest controller. Gardening Solution: Termite & Ant Killer Concentrate    

It doesn't mix well with kerosene. Can a wetting agent be added? 
Kerosene is not meant to dissolve the weedkiller, rather turn it into an emulsion, which in turn will assist with application. This emulsion will enable the user to paint the stem and will hold the weedkiller chemical longer on the stem of the plant.

To get rid of vigorous wisteria, is it better to mix the product with kerosene or water? 
Either will kill the plant. Using kerosene or diesel will have a quicker effect.

Instructions say for Blackberry to mix 200ml/12L of water and for Woody Weeds 200ml/1.1L of Kerosene or Diesel, is this correct?
Woody weeds are harder to kill, therefore a stronger mix is required.

Gardening Solution
Tree, Blackberry & Woody Weedkiller