Rule No. 1 with pesticides: Follow the label

Posted: Thursday, September 08, 2005

If you use pesticides in your garden, never assume that better control might be achieved by increasing the dosage.


Follow label recommendations precisely. Instructions on the label are the result of comprehensive testing. If followed carefully, they assure safe, effective results.

Although pesticides for the home and garden aren't extremely dangerous, difficult to handle, or require protective clothing, all pesticides should be treated with care.

Precautions and safety tips aren't meant to alarm anyone. They're for the consumer's protection. Pesticides, like other tools, must be used like fine cutlery, electrical appliances or power lawn mowers. They're hazardous if used carelessly.

Here are measures to guard you and your family against accidents:

l Use pesticides only when absolutely necessary. Then, be sure to use the one best for the job. Make sure the pest and host are included in the recommendations on the product label.

l Read the entire label carefully before buying a pesticide. Be sure the label covers the specific pest and host you're treating. Follow it exactly. Note the precautionary information each time the material is used. Don't exceed recommended dosages or ignore safety instructions.

l Never treat edible crops close to harvest. Never eat or smoke while using pesticide materials. Avoid inhaling sprays or dusts. Don't spill pesticide on the skin or clothing. If spilled, remove clothing and wash immediately. Wash hands and face thoroughly and change clothes after using a pesticide.

l Avoid contaminating food supplies. Cover food and water containers when treating livestock or pet areas. Be careful not to contaminate aquariums, fish ponds or beehives. Store pesticides in original containers. Keep them out of the reach of children, pets and irresponsible people. If possible, keep pesticides locked or in a remote area of the basement or garage.

l Never leave empty pesticide containers lying around. Follow label directions for disposal to avoid hazards. If there are no disposal instructions, rinse those that have held liquids and put the rinse water in the sprayer. Repeat two more times. Punch holes in the bottom to prevent reuse. Properly rinsed containers then can be discarded with other trash.

l Used aerosol containers should be emptied by inverting the can and holding the valve open until all the propellant gas has escaped. Then these also can be placed in the trash. However, avoid puncturing, compacting or burning aerosol cans.

l Lastly, read the instructions on products no matter how familiar you are with them. New rates and application techniques often occur.

Fall is coming

Think of planting some marigolds now for the fall and early winter. They extend the summer colors, plus hold up well until a frost hits them.

Petunias are another plant you'll need to consider adding to your garden at this time of year. They can handle light frosts in the winter. If you already have petunias in your garden and they're a bit leggy, consider cutting them back and fertilize them. This will bring them back as the weather cools and provide a new show of color this fall.

Don't forget to fertilize your roses this month. They'll keep blooming this fall with the extra shot of nutrition. Also, remove weeds in your shrubs and flower beds, and add new mulch to keep them weed free. Don't forget to edge the beds.

If you're thinking of planting tulips in your garden this year, buy the bulbs now and put them in the crisper of your refrigerator for 12 weeks before planting. Tulips in our area need to be chilled to break dormancy and get them to flower.

Ed Poenicke is a retired Chatham County extension agent.

