See tips on pesticide application to ensure that your pesticide applications are always successful, and to earn a CEU.
Pesticides are part of any comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) plan, but they don’t always work as planned, according to a Citrus Industry article. While growers may suspect that the target pest has acquired resistance, but that’s not always the case. The article shares tips on pesticide application aimed at ensuring they are successful, taking information from “Applying Pesticides Correctly” (7th Edition) by F. Fishel. The article and accompanying test can be used for one CEU. See highlights from the article below.
Tips on Pesticide Application
Identify pests correctly. “The first key to successful IPM is correctly identifying the target pest. If you don’t identify the pest, you might use the incorrect pesticide.”
Check labels and calibration. “Do you carefully read the label one more time to get the correct dosage when you’re getting ready to make a pesticide application? Even if you apply the chemical frequently, you should always read the label and make sure you’re putting the correct amount in the tank.”
Get the timing right. “Timing is critical. Correct timing of a pesticide application can be the difference between success and failure. New pesticide chemistries may target only a certain life stage of the pest, like eggs or larvae, so timing the application to the correct life stage is more critical than ever.”
Coverage is key. “Coverage is another critical aspect you may not be checking. If the pesticide does not reach the target pest, then it will be ineffective. This may not be critical with systemic pesticides, but it is important when using a contact pesticide.”
Consider environmental conditions. “The environment is something that all growers deal with. Environmental conditions not only affect crop growth but also a pesticide application’s efficiency. Temperature extremes may inactivate the pesticide or make it phytotoxic to the crop, like oil-based pesticides on a hot day. Check the label for any temperature requirements before making an application.”
Proper pesticide storage. “What is your pesticide storage shed like? Unsuitable storage conditions can impact the quality of the pesticide and harm application effectiveness.”
Pesticide resistance. “Pesticide resistance is the result of a long period in which the same chemical has been used over and over again. You might not be at fault; it may be many of the growers in your area using the same chemical repeatedly.”
Read the article for the full tips on pesticide application and the link to take the test to earn one CEU.
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