Tobacco to treat soil borne pests

[Carter Beall]

I have heard that using cigarette butts or snuff soaked in water can be used to kill soil borne pests, but will it harm earthworms? I do not have any specific case to treat, I would just like to know for future reference.

 

[Chuck]

Ever hear of tobacco mosaic virus

 

[Carter Beall]

yes, but it only affects certain plants, which this mixture should not be used on

 

[remnant]

Tobacco has an alternative use as a pesticide. Nicotine, the active ingredient has been known to kill a rat on poisoning with a concentrated dose of 3mg. But I suppose this depends on their biochemistry which is different from that of worms. I think it would work selectively since pests are generally attracted to things and this would expose them to the nicotine. You should apply the tobacco during the time when the pests you are targeting are most active.