Chemical products can help you control the pests and diseases that could damage the lawn and garden you’ve worked on so hard. But if you’re going to use chemicals in your yardwork, it’s important that you know how to use them correctly. Here, Ortho answers the questions most commonly asked about its chemical products and how to use them.
What products are the best to use if I have children or pets: liquids, powders or granules?
All of these formulations can be used if they are applied and stored according to label directions. However, liquid products are generally preferable because, once dried, they adhere to the sprayed surface. Unless specified otherwise on the label, you should also keep children and pets out of treated areas until the product has dried.
Gardening Tips: Using Chemical Lawn Garden Products Safely
How do I know when my vegetables are safe to eat?
First, consult the label to insure the product can be used on that type of plant. If the plant isn’t listed, don’t use it. Each type of pesticide degrades at different rates on different plant surfaces, it is important to review the pre-harvest interval on the label and pick and eat fruit or vegetables only after the prescribed time period.
If I wait the recommended period on your label, will there still be traces of pesticides on the vegetables?
Edible crops may contain very small amounts of pesticides, even after waiting the prescribed number of days shown on the label. However, all this residue is negligible, it should cause no harmful effects, and the vegetable or fruit may be eaten. Keep in mind the residue tolerance levels are jointly set by the EPA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are the same for any fruit or vegetable in a grocery store. As a general rule, always rinse fruits and vegetables before eating.
What is the best way to store chemical products?
Always store chemicals in their original containers. Never store chemicals in any food or beverage containers. Chemicals are best stored in a locked, well-ventilated space, out of the sun, and away from open flames and pilot lights. Always store products out of the reach of children and pets and away from foods.
How do I dispose of diluted spray?
Plan ahead. Mix only the amount you actually need. If you’ve mixed too much the best way to dispose of the excess is to spray other plants listed on the label. Don’t pour any pesticides down the drain — most pesticides are harmful to the beneficial organisms that work in septic tanks and sewage treatment plants.
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