Using insecticides on succulent plants should be approached with caution.
Succulents, like all other plants, can sometimes be bothered by insects that feed on different parts of the plant's vasculature and cause damage, sometimes even death. Generally speaking, it is always recommend to first investigate cultural and biological control methods to remove insects from any plant, but serious infestations may warrant the use of a chemical insecticide. Approach the use of chemical insecticides on succulents with caution, as doing improperly so can lead to some unintended consequences. Does this Spark an idea?
Pesticide Selection
There are numerous insecticides approved for use on cacti and other succulent plants, typically containing acephate, carbaryl, dimethoate, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, or pyrethroids such as bifenthrin, cypermethrin, fluvalinate, permethrin and lambda-cyhalothrin as their active chemical ingredients. An insecticide you purchase may not list the specific succulent plant (cactus, yucca, etc.), but may say something like "ornamental plants." It is obviously important to purchase an insecticide that is labeled for use on succulents, but it is nearly as important to choose one that is targeted at the specific species attacking your succulents.
Species
Certain species of mealybugs, weevils, beetles and other insects have long been considered pests or succulent plants. To some extent, the effectiveness of using insecticides on succulent plants depends on the species in question. Mealybugs, for instance, are notoriously difficult to control with insecticides since their cotton-wool covers can protect them from insecticide contact. Similarly, insecticides labeled for control of sisal weevils will not kill larvae already living inside the plant but will discourage weevils from breeding new larvae inside the plant. On the other hand, insecticides show a high degree of effectiveness in controlling scales, beetles and other succulent pests.
Application Methods
In the first instance, the safest way to apply any insecticides to any plants is to follow the application instructions meticulously. Systemic insecticides are intended to be used as preventives, so should be applied to succulent plants prior to the time of year when pests typically attacks. For mealybugs, it is well worth your while to purchase an insecticide with a wetting agent so the insecticide travels underneath the cottony covers that protect mealybugs (some are even approved to be painted on with a fine brush).
Other Considerations
Even if an insecticide is labeled for use on succulent plants, it is always a good idea to test the insecticide on an inconspicuous part of the plant first. Observe the tested part of the plant over the next few days to check for the signs of phytotoxicity, such as edges or tips of leaves that appear burned. In general, using insecticides on succulent plants is no more dangerous than using them on any other type of plant, so long as you carefully select the right type of insecticide, apply it according to the manufacturer's directions and always check your succulents for signs of a toxic reaction to the insecticide.
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