Insecticides FAQ
What is the difference between contact and systemic insecticides?
Contact insecticides kill insects on direct contact and must reach the pest to work. Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant and kill insects that feed on it, reaching hidden and internal feeders. Contact products give fast knockdown of visible pests; systemics provide longer protection against feeding insects. The pest's feeding habits guide the choice.
How do I choose an insecticide for a specific pest?
Identify the pest accurately, then match it to an insecticide labeled for that pest, since products are not universal and the label lists the targets. The wrong product fails while the pest spreads. When unsure, get an accurate identification before buying, because effective control starts with knowing exactly what you are treating.
Why is insecticide rotation important?
Insects develop resistance to an insecticide used repeatedly, so rotating between products with different modes of action preserves their effectiveness. Relying on one product breeds resistant populations that no longer respond. Resistance management through rotation is essential professional practice, particularly in production settings with sustained pest pressure and multiple generations per season.
How do I protect pollinators when using insecticides?
Read the label for pollinator precautions, avoid applying to blooming plants when bees are active, and time applications to minimize exposure, such as evening when pollinators are less active. Many products carry specific bee warnings. Protecting pollinators is both an environmental responsibility and often a label requirement, so factor it into when and what you spray.
What safety precautions apply to insecticides?
Always follow the label, which dictates PPE, mixing, rates, and restricted-entry and pre-harvest intervals, and is legally binding. Wear the specified protection, observe re-entry and harvest intervals, and store products securely away from children and animals. Proper handling protects the applicator, others on site, and the surrounding environment.
Can insecticides be ordered in volume for a program?
Yes. Insecticides are stocked in quantities for professional spray programs with volume pricing by quote. Operations managing pests across a season benefit from having a rotation of appropriate products on hand, so they can treat promptly and switch modes of action as resistance management requires.
