Imidacloprid on agave seedlings- application question

[nsp88]

I threw a bunch of new plants from all over the place in a plant rack and now I have mealy bugs on some of my sedums and delosperma (came from a nursery). Neem oil and castile soap aren't fully working.

Then today noticed aphids on my agave seedlings (no clue where they came from, not showing up on anything else yet). A lot of them. I sprayed neem and castile soap on them, and also just ordered idacloprid for pickup tomorrow.

I have seen discussions on here about dilution ratios, so I will go find those for that info

My main question is: Do I spray the seedlings or just the soil? What about on larger plants-spray the plant all over or just the soil?

Secondary questions: Do I water after spraying? How frequently do I spray? Just once?

Thanks

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[Gee.S]

I wouldn't apply any type of systemic on seedlings. I would spray them with something nasty, perhaps malathion. I wouldn't normally recommend something nasty to spray indoors, but the upside of malathion in that regard is that is loses potency very quickly.

[nsp88]

Okay, thanks. I will go get some.

I can take them outside and spray and let dry then bring inside. And then they are locked in a restroom the kids can't get in.

[Gee.S]

That's a good plan. And in just a few days they're perfectly safe.