Before starting a pesticide application, what should be checked?

Before starting a pesticide application, checking the weather and predicted changes in temperature is crucial for several reasons. Weather conditions can significantly influence the effectiveness and safety of pesticide applications. For instance, applying pesticides during high winds can lead to drift, where the pesticide moves off-target, potentially harming non-target plants, animals, or people. Additionally, temperatures can affect the volatility of certain pesticides, which might lead to increased evaporation or degradation of the chemical before it can do its intended job.

Absolute care must be taken when considering recent rainfall or forecasted precipitation. Rain following application can wash away the pesticide, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing environmental harm. Understanding these factors allows for better planning and ensures compliance with application guidelines and regulations, ultimately leading to more effective pest management.

While other factors like the visible number of pests, cost of the pesticide, and availability of protective gear are also important, they do not directly impact the immediate effectiveness of the application like the weather conditions do.