FAQ: Products - Richgro
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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: Products

I applied it once it’s not working?
As per the label directions keep applying if activity is still seen.

Bifenthrin, the active in Richgro Ant Killa, works by contact so it is important to apply the product to places where ants are highly active such as the actual ants nest and ant trails.

When ant activity is seen apply Richgro Ant Killa around the nest and along any ant trails. A light watering in of the sand granules will activate the chemical and also wash the granules deeper into ant nests and or ant trails.

Note that this product is not a one application product, application is required until all sign of ant activity is gone. For heavy infestations apply at the high rate as described on the label.

For really heavy infestations the combined use of Ant Killa Granules and Richgro Ant Gel may assist in eradication of the infestation.

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, It is considered residual. It can be effective over an extended period of time after application. Depending upon environmental conditions, this could be weeks or even months.

Is Bifenthrin absorbed by plant foliage?
No.

Can Bifenthrin be used around pets?
It is recommended to use with caution around pets. Do not allow pets in areas where product could be consumed.

Can this product be used on edible crops?
No. Do not use on edible crops. As per label directions the product is only registered for use on lawns and external surrounds of buildings and structures. Refer also to caution statement – not for human or pet consumption.

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.

Does it matter if it gets wet/ should I water in?
Don’t be afraid to add a little water and wash the product into the gaps and crevices where ants love to hide.

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)

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.

How long between applications?
Re-apply when necessary (as a guide, every 2-3 weeks).

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

Can I use on different plants?
Yes – Black Marvel Rose and Flower Food is ideal for roses and all other ornamental and flowering plants.

Gardening Solution:  Black Marvel Rose & Flower Food

What levels of Calcium are in Blood and Bone?

4.0%

Why can’t I use on natives?

This organic fertiliser has high Phosphorus (P) concentration level (1.5%) and therefore it is not suitable for Native plants as those are Phosphorus sensitive plants.

Gardening Solution
Premium Blood & Bone Based Fertiliser PLUS

How does it work?

Bug Killa is a systemic insecticide that is taken up by the plants roots to control pests. It also contains Iron and Zeolite which are beneficial to plant health.

Which insects does it control?

It controls sucking Insects such as Azalea Lace Bug, Aphids, Mealybug, Scale and Scarab Beetle Larvae. In pots and in the ground.

How much do I use in my pots?

As a guide:

3 litre pot (19 cm in diameter) – 2.5g can be used on 10x3L pots – 0.25g per pot

6 litre pot (25 cm in diameter) – 5g can be used on 10x6L pots – 0.5g per pot

Is it safe for kids and pets?

As per label directions, it is harmful if inhaled or swallowed.
Note: When using the product it is recommended to also wear disposable gloves and wash hands after use.

Can I apply in my vegetable garden?

The product is registered only for use on ornamentals – ie. Roses, Azaleas, Magnolias, Gardenias.

How long does last / when should I reapply?
Gives at least 2 months protection. Period of protection for plants is based on trial data. Actual period of protection may be longer. Only reapply Bug Killa if re-infestation occurs. Avoid applying more than twice in a 12 month period.
NOTE: Visible control of pests may take up to 2 weeks after application, depending on the severity of the infestation.

Will it be harmful to bees?

Insecticides are designed to protect your garden from unwanted pests and diseases. These products are in general designed to stop insects and by nature can unfortunately also impact bees. Richgro have formulated Bug Killa as a granule which is easily sprinkled onto the ground, and watered in, thus eliminating overspray or direct contact to flowering plants. This is a much safer and less harmful way to protect your flowering plants from unwanted pests which suck the leaves and stems of the plant.

To protect such beneficial wildlife we further recommend cautious application as per the directions on the label: Do not allow exposed granules –  Clean any spillage immediately.

Please always refer to the product label for correct application.

Gardening Solution: Bug Killa Granular Garden Insecticide

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

Is it safe for pets?

As per label directions this product is not for pet/human consumption. Use only as directed.

Why does it look like sand, not powder?
Garden lime is used to increase the pH of soils, making them more alkaline or sweet and less acidic or sour.
Richgro uses agricultural lime made from crushed limestone rock that has been ground into fine granules.

Gardening Solution: Garden Lime – Natural Soil Sweetener

Does Gypsum contain Cadmium, is the product a by product or is it mined?
Gypsum is mined from sedimentary rock formations and does not contain Cadmium.

Gardening Solution
Gypsum Clay Breaker – Natural Soil Improver

 

Will it stain walls and flooring?

These products should not stain or harm your walls or flooring however we recommend testing the product on area to be treated first.

 

How long after I sprayed can I allow my pet dog/cat to roam?

The general rule is that while spraying you keep pets in another room or outside to play. Just give the product time to dry before letting your cats and dogs roam through the treated areas (on the more cautious side 2-3 hours). If inside treatment ventilate the house/room well while drying.

Gardening Solution

Indoor Outdoor Surface Spray

When should I apply Lawn Beetle & Grub Killa?
At the first sign of lawn grub or beetle activity such, as dead or dying insects on top of the lawn after watering or rain, apply.

Another indication of Lawn beetle or grub activity is brown patches on your lawn. If you are not sure if you have lawn beetles or grubs the best way to find out is to pick a part of the lawn that has a brown patch, mix up some soapy water in a bucket and apply it to the edges of the brown patch, if you have beetles or grubs, they will surface after about ten minutes and will need to be treated.

Can I still apply Lawn Beetle & Grub Killa if it rains continuously?
It is recommended not apply within 24 hours of forecast of rain. If heavy rain is experienced (excess of 25mm) within 24 hours of application, a re-application of Lawn Beetle & Grub Killa once rain has ceased and is not forecast within the next 24 hours, is advised. In that case apply at the higher rate as described on the label.

I applied it once it’s not working?
As per the label directions keep applying if activity is still seen.

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, It is considered residual. It can be effective over an extended period of time after application. Depending upon environmental conditions, this could be weeks or even months.

Is Bifentrhin absorbed by plant foliage?
No.

Can Bifenthrin be used around pets?
It is recommended to use with caution around pets. Do not allow pets in areas where product could be consumed.

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.

How long is it active for?
Bifenthrin does not move in soils with large amounts of organic matter, clay and silt. It also has a low mobility in sandy soils that are low in organic matter. Bifenthrin is relatively insoluble in water, so there are no concerns about groundwater contamination through leaching. It’s half-life in soil, the amount of time it takes to degrade to half of its original concentration, is 7 days to 8 months depending on the soil type and the amount of air in the soil.

How long after use can I mow?
We recommend 7 days.

Can I use on a new lawn?
While there is no set length of time to wait, it is easier to let new grass become established first, before using.

How long between applications?
Reapply as necessary.

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

How long between applications?
Starting 4 weeks before harvest. Repeat once a week.

Gardening Solution:
Naturally Based Fruit Fly Spray

Where is it sourced from?
Play sand is sourced  from a quarry where large rocks are blasted from the earth and crushed into sand.

Can I use in fish/lizard tanks?
Yes – Richgro is great for fish tanks and hermit crab/lizard tanks.

Gardening Solution
Soft Washed Play Sand

How is it sourced?
Play sand is sourced  from a quarry where large rocks are blasted from the earth and crushed into sand.

Can I use in fish/lizard tanks?
Yes – Richgro is great for fish tanks and hermit crab/lizard tanks.

Gardening Solution: Soft Washed Play Sand

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

As a general guide we recommend that a standard 25L bag of potting mix will fill approximately:

2 x 12’’ POTS (30cm)

3 x 10’’ POTS (25cm)

5 x 8’’ POTS (20cm)

18 x 6’’ POTS (15cm)

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

Sulphate of Potash (Soluble) – Why does it not dissolve completely?
Maximum solubility is difficult to achieve without using hot water. The fact that it does not dissolve completely does not affect the efficiency of the product.

Can I use on orchids/natives?
Yes, you can use sulphate of potash on your orchids.
Yes, you can use sulphate of potash on natives.

Sulphate of Potash (Soluble) – Why does it not dissolve completely?
Maximum solubility is difficult to achieve without using hot water. It not dissolving completely does not affect the effectiveness of the product.

Gardening Solution:
Sulphate of Potash – Fruit & Flower Booster

 

Why is Richgro Super Phosphate not available in WA?
There are regulations in place by the Western Australian Government that limit the amount of phosphorus in ‘home-garden’ fertilisers in order to protect the health of Western Australia’s waterways.
It was assessed that excess phosphorus feeds algae, causing algal blooms. When algal blooms die, the decomposition process reduces oxygen levels in the water and can lead to the death of fish and other marine life. It is believed that lower phosphorus “river-friendlier” fertilisers will have a significant beneficial impact on the amount of phosphorus that finds its way into our river system and waterways.

The regulations effectively halve the concentration of phosphorus in domestic-use fertilisers and minimise phosphorus leaching to the environment from residential sources.

All lawn fertilisers are limited to a maximum content of one per cent phosphorus.

Garden fertilisers are limited to a maximum of 2 per cent phosphorus.

Gardening Solution:
Super Phosphate – Root Booster

 

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.

What Is process oil?
Process oil is another term for vegetable oil.

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

Richgro