Choosing Pesticides Wisely Carefully read label and disposal instructions before using. Be sure you can properly dispose of any unused pesticide and container according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Reducing the need for pesticides by using good cultural practices. Keep your plants healthy with the following guidelines:
- Select plants adapted or native to your area. Colorado State University Extension has fact sheets on recommended plants in Colorado.
- Control weeds by using mulches and hand-pulling where possible.
- Water adequately—underwatering stresses plants, leaving room for weeds and other undesirable competitors to move in. Be careful not to overwater, which can be equally damaging.
- Do not crowd plants—planting too close weakens them and can increase disease.
- Fertilize properly—Inadequate fertilization causes weak plants susceptible to insects and disease; too much fertilizer can damage plants and pollute ground water.
- Add organic matter such as compost to the soil, which enriches the soil and leads to healthier plants.
- Control pests before they become established. Hand-remove diseased leaves or insects as soon as you see them.
Do you really need a pesticide? Before you purchase a pesticide, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is the damage being caused by a pest? Or could it be the weather, over- or underwatering, or herbicide damage?
- If a pest, what kind is it? An insect? Disease? Animal? Rodent?
- Can any non-chemical means be used to control it? Does the damage warrant chemical control, or is it just isolated damage that can be easily removed by hand?
- If a weed, can the weed be pulled by hand (wear gloves)?
- Can the pest be controlled effectively at this stage of its life cycle, or is there a more appropriate time such as early spring, when leaves first appear?
If you must use a pesticide
- Choose the least toxic product. Compare pesticides based on how hazardous they are. Check the label for warnings. The general rule of thumb is that chemicals marked WARNING are more toxic than those marked CAUTION. You should choose a pesticide that will do the job, but yet is the least toxic.
- Consider the application site. For example, if you will be using a pesticide near a pond, do not choose one that says the material is toxic to fish.
Never use a pesticide on a food-bearing plant unless the label explicitly directs such a use. - A pesticide is a general term that includes herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, rotenticides, etc. Choose one appropriate for the problem.
Buy only the amount of pesticide you plan to use in one season, as most have a limited shelf life. Pesticides must be stored where they will be protected from extreme heat or cold, and should be kept in a secure, locked place. - Again, read the label instructions before using.
- Your Colorado State University Extension Agent can help you choose the pesticide that is right for your needs.
