Tips For Using Pesticides

Tips For Using Pesticides


Sometimes, even with good lawn care practices, weather
conditions or other factors can cause pest problems to develop.
Pesticides can help control many lawn pests. But pesticides
have risks as well as benefits, and it's important to use them
properly.

The chemicals we call pesticides include insecticides,
herbicides, and fungicides. These products are designed to kill
or control pest insects, weeds, and fungal diseases. Pesticides
can be very effective. But don't be tempted to rely solely on
pesticides as a quick-fix solution to any lawn problem.
Serious, ongoing pest problems are often a sign that your lawn
is not getting everything it needs. In other words, the pests
may be a symptom of an underlying problem. You need to correct
the underlying problem to reduce the chance that the pest will
reappear.

All pesticides are toxic to some degree. This means they
can pose some risk to you, to your children and pets, and to
any wildlife that venture onto your lawn--especially if these
chemicals are overused or carelessly applied. Pesticides can
also kill earthworms and other beneficial organisms, disrupting
the ecological balance of your lawn.



Store pesticides out of children's reach in a locked
cabinet or garden shed.



When Spraying, Protect your skin, your eyes, your lungs









Wash this clothing separately before using it again.


Before Using Any Pesticide, Be Sure To Review These Basic Rules


1. Take safety precautions. Never assume a pesticide is
harmless.

* Read the entire label and follow its instructions. Use
only the amount directed, at the time and under the
conditions specified, and for the purpose listed.

* Be sure to wear any protective clothing--like gloves, long
sleeves, and long pants--indicated on the label. Wash this
clothing separately before using it again.

* Keep children and pets away from pesticides, and make sure
no one goes on a treated lawn for at least the time
prescribed by the pesticide label.

* Remember to follow any state or local requirements for
posting your treated lawn or notifying your neighbors that
a pesticide has been applied.

* Store and dispose of pesticides properly, according to the
label directions and any state and local regulations.

2. Use pesticides to minimize pests, not eradicate them. The
latter is often impossible and unnecessary.

3. Be sure you have accurately identified the pest so you can
choose the best pesticide for the job and use it most
effectively. Obtain professional advice from your county
extension agent or a local expert.

4. Spot treat whenever possible. In most cases, it isn't
necessary to treat the whole lawn with pesticides if the
problem is confined to certain areas. Spraying more than
necessary is wasteful and can be environmentally damaging.



If you have questions about a pesticide, call EPA's
tollfree National Pesticide Telecommunications Network
(1-800-858-7378). For general information on minimizing
pesticide risks, call or write EPA for a free copy of the
Citizen's Guide to Pesticides. The number to call is
703-305-5017; the address is: EPA, Office of Pesticide
Programs, Field Operations Division, H7506C, 401M Street, S.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20460.