What is Kaolin and How Does it Work?
A relatively new technology, kaolin sprays are currently available under the tradename Surround® WP Crop Protectant. Please note that Surround is, at this point in time, the only kaolin product suitable and registered for horticultural use. The kaolin in Surround is processed to a specific particle size range, and combined with a sticker-spreader. Non-processed kaolin clay may be phytotoxic. We have heard of one apple grower who bought a traincar load of “generic” kaolin clay, and killed most of his apple trees! Surround presents a unique form of pest control: a non-toxic particle film that places a barrier between the pest and its host plant. The active ingredient is kaolin clay, an edible mineral long used as an anti-caking agent in processed foods, and in such products as toothpaste and Kaopectate. There appears to be no mammalian toxicity or any danger to the environment posed by the use of kaolin in pest control. Surround is sprayed on as a liquid, which evaporates, leaving a prot
