Plant Pathology Infobytes

June 1, 1998
Tips for Safe Pesticide Application

Diseases and injurious insects are making their appearance in many home gardens across the state. Control of many of these pests which cause problems for Mississippi gardeners would be a lot more difficult without fungicides and insecticides. These pesticide products serve a useful purpose, but to obtain the best results and minimize risks associated with application, the following rules should be observed.

  • Apply only to plants listed on the label; not all fungicides and insecticides can be used on all plants. For example, pesticides which are okay for use on tomatoes and peppers may not be cleared for application to other vegetable crops.
  • When mixing fungicides or insecticides, always measure the amount needed - don't guess.
  • It's a good idea to store a set of pesticide measuring spoons and mixing containers with your pesticides for ready accessibility. Have one set for mixing herbicides and another for fungicides and insecticides.
  • Sprayers previously used for application of herbicides should not be used later for applying fungicides and insecticides. It's best to have separate sprayers to avoid plant injury which could result from herbicide residues which are difficult to remove from sprayers.
  • Many fungicides and insecticides can be mixed together and applied to plants during the same spraying; however not all are compatible, so check labels for information about the advisability of blending pesticide products.
  • Most fungicides and insecticides have a specified waiting period from time of application until the crop may be harvested; this time period is specified on the product label.
  • Minimize the absorption of chemicals through skin by wearing gloves, long sleeves, and long pants when spraying pesticides in the garden, orchard, or home landscape.
  • Pesticides should be applied only in open, well-ventilated areas; always avoid breathing pesticide fumes.
  • If you apply pesticides frequently, or have respiratory problems, you may want to invest in a respirator.
  • After spraying, washing clothing separately from other laundry; take a shower or bath.
  • If you aren't sure about the use of a pesticide product, it's a lot better to ask questions before application - not after!

For additional information about safe use of pesticide products, check with us at the County Extension Office.


Written by the late Dr. Frank Killebrew

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