Insecticides

Choosing Pesticides

Strong and healthy plants are less susceptible to attack by pests and good cultural practices can reduce pest outbreaks. Before purchasing any pesticide, one should know few things like:

1. Whether the damage is actually caused by a pest or the weather or a cultural practice, like over- or under watering, fertilizer or herbicide damage.

2. If it is a pest whether it is insect, disease, and animal, rodent.

3. The non-chemical ways to control it.

4. Is pesticide use cost-effective or would the chemical cure cost more than the plant is worth?

5. Can the pest be controlled by a chemical at this phase of its life cycle or would use at a different time be more effective?

Thing to remember: Keep in mind just be seeing an insect does not mean that insects are a problem. Proper identification of the problem is essential before selecting any type of control. There are many superb resources available to help to identify pests or pest caused problems, including skilled professionals at nurseries and garden centers. If determined a pesticide is needed, read the pesticide labels carefully. One must choose a product that is specifically labeled for use on the plants to protect and effective against the pest to be controlled. In no way use a pesticide on a food-bearing plant unless the label directs such use. The broad term pesticide includes insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, rodenticides. One must determine which product is appropriate to combat problem. Evade problems by taking the time to cautiously study pesticide needs.

Keep waste away: Minimize waste. One must purchase only the amount of pesticide that is anticipated using in one season. Most pesticides have a restricted shelf life. If pesticides are stored, they should be protected from extreme heat and cold and must be kept in a secure, locked place. Study the storage section of the product label prior to purchase and do not buy a product that cannot be stored as directed. Also remember that pesticides should be kept in their original container with the label undamaged. Choose the smallest amount toxic product. Compare pesticides based on how harmful they are. The hint word on the label indicates a product's toxicity. Products marked caution are less toxic than those marked warning and should be considered first. Environmental dangers are reported on the label. Be particularly cautious with pesticides containing warnings concerning impact on water.

Insecticides