Why Reading the Pesticide Label Matters
Reading the label and following the directions are frustrating but necessary aspects of using any pesticide. The tiny font, the pages of information, the dosage changes with each crop, and the additional considerations of weather and time of day can make it seem a bit complicated to comply. It’s a far cry from the step-by-step instructions on the back of a cake mix box.
This product label peels open from the corner and folds out with further information.
Stephanie Turner, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Identify the Problem Before Applying a Pesticide
Don’t Treat Without Knowing the Cause
One surprisingly common pitfall for homeowners is using a pesticide product to control an unidentified issue. Please do not look at a struggling plant, run to your pesticide stash, and unthinkingly choose something to try as a solution. I have spoken to homeowners who have applied an insecticide to help a plant suffering from a fungal disease. That is a waste of time and money. Always take the time to identify the pest or problem.
Avoid Misapplications and Wasted Effort
It’s equally as important to know the crop in question. Just because a pesticide has worked well for you in the past does not mean it will work well on other plants in your yard. Some products cause injury to certain plants. A fungicide that works well on marigolds might severely injure impatiens. This potential injury is called phytotoxicity. Alternately, the rate of application may differ from crop to crop.
Apply Pesticides Correctly for Effective Results
Timing and Frequency Matter
Failing to follow through on the necessary steps for correct application is another common mistake. Some products, like granular preemergence herbicides, must be watered in to work correctly. Some products will need to be reapplied at specific intervals. Other products will have a limit on the number of applications that can be made within a certain period.
Understand the Pest’s Life Cycle
Make the application during the correct season or life cycle stage of the pest.
Watch the Weather
Heat, Rain, and Timing Can Impact Effectiveness
We all know the weather can mess up even the best-laid plans. Weather is often another key to applying pesticides correctly. If it is too hot, certain chemicals can volatilize and become airborne. If it rains after application, the water could wash away the active ingredients before they have had time to be effective.
Ask the Right Questions Before You Spray
Check for Approved Uses on the Label
When choosing a pesticide, ask yourself a series of questions. Does the product label indicate the pest, the crop of interest, and the proper locations? (Before applying anything to your vegetable or fruit garden, be certain that the location is acceptable according to the label.)
Confirm You Have the Right Equipment and Conditions
Do I have the equipment and ability to apply it according to the label directions? Are the conditions correct (time of day, season, weather)? Are there any additional warnings on the label I need to follow?
This product label includes precautions that impact the product’s effectiveness.
Stephanie Turner, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Protect Yourself and the Environment
Follow Safety Precautions
Besides saving time and money, following the label protects you and your environment. Wear gloves, eye protection, and any other protective measures indicated.
Protect Pollinators and Beneficial Insects
Don’t apply more of the product than the label allows. Protect bees and other pollinators by applying in the evening when they are through foraging.
Final Thoughts: Always Follow the Label
Follow the label! After all, how successful would you be with a box cake mix if you waited to add the eggs until after it was baked?
Learn More
For more information, visit the HGIC 2752, Pesticide Application Tips and HGIC 2751, Pesticide Safety.
