If using a pesticide to control a problem in the lawn, trees or garden, the first decision to make is what pesticide to use. The answer might be found by contacting the Broomfield master gardeners, accessing the Colorado State University Extension website or reading the pesticide label.
By definition, pesticides will kill, destroy or mitigate pests and could present potential problems to the environment, especially around waterways or runoff areas. All pesticide labels contain a warning word concerning their toxicity. These range from caution and warning to danger, with most pesticides available to the gardener being classified in the least toxic category, caution. This does not mean they are less effective, but that they are not as toxic to people and the environment as some other pesticides.
The pesticide label identifies many of the important aspects of properly and safely using the chemical and lists the ingredients. Among the details on the label, you will find a listing of the types of pests the product will control and the sites or plants where the compound can be used. This is extremely important, since an improperly applied product can destroy or damage non-target plants and can harm people, animals and beneficial insects. Additionally, if the pesticide is used on edible crops, it will tell you when you can harvest the crop after applying the pesticide.
Perhaps the most important aspect of the label is in the application section. This section will describe the equipment needed to safely handle and apply the product. The section also details how you mix the pesticide (if applicable) and the concentration. More is not better. An over-concentrated mixture can damage plants and make the pesticide less effective. Too low a concentration can result in a failure to control the pest and lead to pests' resistance to the pesticide. This section also details when and where to apply the pesticide for the best pest control. There will be requirements for application temperature and for wind speed to prevent drift. Some pesticides will evaporate or volatilize and move to non-target plants if the outside temperature is too high. This is a common problem when temperatures exceed about 85 degrees. Plants several feet away could be damaged.
Remember pesticides do not discriminate and can damage or destroy non-target organisms. An insecticide used to control aphids on flowers, for example, also can destroy beneficial insects. Always read and follow the label instructions when using a pesticide for the best results and to protect yourself and the environment.
More information on pesticide labels, pesticide application, safety and pesticide use can be found on the CSU Extension website at ext.colostate.edu.
Colorado State University Extension in the City and County of Broomfield provides unbiased, research-based information about 4-H youth development, family and consumer issues, gardening, horticulture and natural resources. As part of a nationwide system, Extension brings the research and resources of the university to the community. The Broomfield County Extension office is at 1 DesCombes Drive, Broomfield, 80020. For information, call 720-887-2286.