insecticide[/b].html]Pesticides may be an important tool for pest management. Before choosing a pesticide, it is important to read and understand the instructions on the product label. This will minimize your chances of experiencing problems after using a pesticide.
To reduce risk, look for "signal words" by choosing less toxic pesticide products. This is one of the core concepts of integrated pest management. You can also search for pesticide products registered in your state. Databases vary by state, but they generally allow you to search for products by the pest to be controlled, the active ingredient, and/or the product name.
Why do we need pesticides?
Since the first time edible plants were grown, there has been a need to protect these plants from pests and diseases. The complexity of this protection has increased over time. The Romans used ashes, crushed cypress leaves and diluted urine to protect their crops. Today, a variety of synthetic products have been developed to control pests and diseases more safely, specifically and effectively.
Pesticides are used in a wide range of applications, one of the most important areas being agriculture. the use of PPPs allows more food to be produced on a given area of land; it increases yields and increases farm income. In the absence of PPP, crop losses due to pests and diseases range from 30% to 50%, depending on the crop grown. By protecting crops, PPPs help produce sufficient quality and affordable food and contribute to food security. Farmers use pesticides to.
Protect crops from pests, weeds and fungal diseases while they are growing
Prevent rats, flies and other insects from contaminating food during storage
Protect human health by stopping food crops from being contaminated by fungi
However, because pesticides are used to kill or control pests, nuisance pests, weeds, etc., they have the ability to harm humans, other non-target organisms (wildlife), and the environment. Legislation to control the marketing and use of pesticides aims to minimize such risks and to impose strict controls on the sale and use of pesticides. End users of pesticides (farmers, professional growers or gardeners) need to ensure that pesticides are used safely and effectively.
An appropriate balance needs to be struck between the need to increase food production and the need to ensure the safety of people, food and the environment.
If you need more information about the product you are considering or any pesticide-related topic, please contact us.
How do you choose insecticide?When selecting a pesticide, keep the following important tips in mind.
Know the pest. Is it properly identified by a professional or expert? Time and money may be wasted due to incorrect identification.
Look for your pest on the label. Choose a product that is designed for pests. The pests targeted by the product will be listed on the label.
Decide how much pest activity you can tolerate. It may not be possible to completely eliminate pests, but you can keep populations at a comfortable level.
Consider the treatment area. Are there sensitive areas near the treatment area? Does the area slope toward vulnerable areas such as streams, gardens, wells or playgrounds? Are nearby valuable plants affected by drift?
Choose products that work. Consider contacting a professional, such as your local extension office, for advice on which products are best for your pest problem.
Look for signal words. Products labeled "CAUTION" are less toxic, and some of the least toxic products may not have a signal word.
Read the required safety equipment. If the label requires it, be sure to use protective equipment. This may include gloves, goggles, chemical-resistant clothing or other items.
Know the ingredients of the product. Is it for a specific group of pests or a broad group of pests? Call NPIC and talk to one of our pesticide experts for more information.
Buy only what you need for the season; mix only what you need today. Pesticides may have a limited shelf life and stored pesticides can be a hazard.
Read the entire label every time you use the product. Following the label will reduce risk and allow the product to work as the manufacturer intended.