Distinct classes of insecticide include the pyrethroids (Ambush, Asana, Danitol, Karate, etc.), organo-phosphates (Orthene, Monitor, Lorsban), carbamates (Vydate), chlorinated hydrocarbons (Thiodan), insect growth regulators (Applaud, fenoxicarb), oils, and soaps and detergents.

Insect resistance — Much is said about resistance, but, in actuality, there have been few documented cases in turf and landscape settings. Resistance is the greatest concern in situations where applications of the same insecticide are repeated over an extended time period. For example, two-spotted spider mites can have many generations each year in a typical landscape. If several generations are sprayed with the same miticide, the possibility of resistance can increase. Certain chlorinated hydrocarbons, carbamates, organophosphates and synthetic pyrethroids seem especially vulnerable to insect resistance.

Several practices can reduce the likelihood of developing insecticide resistance. These include:
Spot treating rather than using total cover sprays of the entire lawn or landscape
Using shorter residual insecticides
Alternating between classes of insecticides
Planting turfgrasses and landscape plants with genetic resistance to insect pests
Selecting non-chemical methods of insect control