Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
→ Read the entire label—it's the best source of information about how to use the
product. If the label does not answer your questions, ask for the manufacturer's fact
sheet, or look them up online.
→ Time your treatment to catch pests or diseases at their most vulnerable stage.
→ Buy only the amount you can use in one season.
→ Spot treat whenever possible.
→ If you buy concentrates and dilute them for use, mix up the smallest quantity that
will do the job, and use it up.
→ When mixing or measuring products, use a dedicated set of spoons and cups. Mark
the utensils with something permanent, such as fingernail polish, and store them
with the products so they won't ever be used in the kitchen.
→ Store products in their original containers, out of the reach of children and pets, in
a cool, dark, dry place outside the house. A locked cupboard in the garage or stor-
age shed is ideal.
→ Never remove labels or transfer products to other than their original containers.
→ Water used to rinse out a sprayer or applicator should be applied like the pesticide.
→ Some states, provinces, or counties, such as California, regulate the use of chem-
icals, so you may need to obtain a license from your county or state agriculture
department; even organic products may be covered under licensing requirements.
These licenses for home treatment are usually very easy to obtain. While organic
products are generally of lower toxicity than those not rated organic, they are still
not safe to drink or eat—after all, they are used as pest control because they have
the ability to harm living organisms. That's why safe handling, storage, and dispos-
al practices are necessary, and training and licensing may be required. Even where
there are no licensing requirements, strict adherence to label directions, handling,
application, and disposal is important.
ORGANIC DISEASE CONTROL
There are very few vineyards, large or small, that do not need to spray to control fungal
diseases. If you have chosen the best variety and rootstock for your site, and you practice
good canopy management and keep the vineyard clean, you will be able to prevent some
fungal disease problems, but you are unlikely to eliminate the need for a spray program en-
tirely. Fortunately, there are quite a few products that are considered safe for use in organic
vineyards. Most organic fungicides are based on the traditional antifungal agents of sulfur
