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Damage can also be the result of other factors such as incorrect irrigation, poor drainage, herbicide toxicity, or physical damage. More often than most people imagine, pesticide products are applied unnecessarily because the cause of damage has been misidentified.
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Some questions to ask before choosing to use a pesticide include: Is a pest really the cause of your problem?
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Keep in mind that most pests cannot be entirely eliminated-even with pesticides. Verify that the organism you seek to control is really causing lasting damage, and research alternative management methods. DECIDING TO USE A PESTICIDEīefore using any pesticide, be sure you need it. "Pesticide" is a broad term that includes insecticides (insect killers), herbicides (weed or plant killers), fungicides (fungus killers), rodenticides (rodent killers), growth regulators, and other materials like miticides, which are used for mite control, or products that kill snails and slugs (molluscicides). DEFINITION OF A PESTICIDEĪ pesticide is any material (natural, organic, or synthetic) used to control, prevent, kill, suppress, or repel pests. Also, carefully consider whether or not a pesticide is necessary and if a nonchemical solution might be just as effective. However, when the label instructions are not followed correctly, plant injury may occur, pests may not be controlled, health may be impaired, and pesticides may contribute to soil, air, or water pollution.īefore you purchase and use a pesticide, learn all you can about the material, how to use it, and how to properly dispose of the empty containers. When used properly, pesticides can protect your plants or home from damage. Pesticides are designed to be toxic to the pests they target-whether they are insects, cause plant disease, or are weeds or other unwanted home and garden invaders.
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