The situation has been clarified recently by Drs. J. Capinera and O. Nesheim here at the University of Florida. Examples of persons having such an interest are employees of the manufacturer of such products, employees of wholesale or retail establishments where such materials are sold, and pesticide applicators who make pest control claims for trade name materials in connection with pest control services they are selling to a customer. Persons making pest control claims for a material in connection with its sale can be charged with the sale and distribution of an unregistered pesticide. Persons who use products not registered with EPA for any use not specifically recommended on the product label are responsible for any plant damage or chemical residues that may result.
Popular literature contains many references to their use and effectiveness.
The research base is also considerably weaker. Results of soap and oil as pesticides have been mixed. Plant varieties also differ in their susceptibility to burning induced by soaps and oils, and environmental conditions, as well as micronutrients, fertilizers, and other additives may affect this tendency. The higher the rate of application, the more likely burning and stunting will occur. Finally, when discussing soaps, detergents, and vegetable oils for pest control purposes, it is best to avoid recommending a brand name.