Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Thorough knowledge of the target insects helps determine the frequency of
application and the choice of chemicals. One well-timed application of an
effective pesticide may provide the desired control. Sometimes repeated insec-
ticide applications will be necessary as the insect infestation continues and
pesticide residues break down.
The pesticide label, Cooperative Extension Service recommendations, and
other sources usually indicate a range of treatment intervals and dosages. By
carefully observing the pest problem and applying chemicals when the pests
are most vulnerable, you often will be able to use lower doses of pesticides
and apply them less often. Over a long growing period, this can mean consid-
erable savings in time, money, and total pesticide chemicals applied.
Most control strategies take advantage of the natural controls provided by
the pest's natural enemies. When choosing a pesticide, consider what effect it
will have on these beneficial organisms. Ask your pesticide dealer, agricultural
extension agent, or other experts for advice.
Indoors
—Most indoor insect control is aimed at prevention or eradica-
tion of the pest problem while minimizing the exposure of humans and ani-
mals to chemicals. The most common application techniques are crack and
crevice treatments, spot treatments, and fumigation of entire structures, com-
modities, or individual pieces of equipment.
III. PLANT DISEASE AGENTS
A plant disease is any harmful condition that makes a plant different from
a normal plant in its appearance or function. Plant diseases caused by bio-
logical agents (pathogens) are of primary interest to pesticide applicators be-
cause they often can be controlled with pesticides. Pathogens include:
•
fungi
•
bacteria
•
viruses and mycoplasmas
•
nematodes.
Parasitic seed plants, discussed in the section on weeds, are sometimes
considered plant disease agents because of the type of injury they cause to the
host plant.
