Insecticides, Applying

Applications and how to apply them require attention

Whether in the greenhouse, garden, or the home - use caution!

There are several ways to apply a pesticide.

• A band application is the application of the pesticide to a strip over or along each crop row.
• Broadcast is a uniform application to an entire, specific area.
• Dip application is either complete or partial immersion of a plant, animal or object in a pesticide.
• Directed application is aiming the pesticide at a portion of a plant, animal or structure.
• A drench application means to saturate the soil with a pesticide.
• Spot treatment is the application of a pesticide to a small, specific area.

Various formulations of pesticides are available and you should be familiar with them before you use them.

Liquid formulations include emulsifiable concentrates, also known as EC or E. These formulations should be mixed with water to form an emulsion in your spray tank. Emulsifiable concentrates become milky looking when mixed with water.

Flowables, also referred to as F or L are mixed with water to form a suspension in your spray tank.

Aerosols are low-concentrate solutions, usually applied as a fine spray or mist indoors. Some are sold in pressurized cans.

Dry formulations include dusts which usually have a D on the label. Dusts must be used dry.

Granular formulations are much larger than dust particles and also should be used dry.

A wettable powder designated by a W or WP looks like a dust, but is made to mix with water. Wettable powders require continuous agitation to maintain a suspension.

A foliar pesticide is one which is applied to the leaves of plants.

When you are using any pesticide, remember to read the label carefully before using the product. Don't use the pesticide, then read the label.

For more information about the safe and proper use of pesticides or other household, lawn and garden chemicals; contact your local County Extension Office.