Pesticide Use on Lawns

Pesticides can be defined as any chemical substance used to deter pests from inhabiting your lawn, garden, golf course or farm. Fungicide, insecticide and herbicide work by poisoning the intruders but sparing your lawn. There are many different types of pesticides and some are extremely specific, focusing on just one plant or animal. Regardless of the product though, it is highly recommended that one take as many safety precautions as possible to avoid skin contact or accidental ingestion. There are also environmentally-friendly pesticides that can be employed, but regardless of the type, correct application is extremely important to the well-being of your lawn.

Strategies

There are several strategies you can use when applying pesticides to your lawn, but it is important to recognize some of the preventative measures you can take before having to purchase chemicals. Make sure that you avoid standing water and excessive watering of your lawn, as this will attract a number of pests.

Once you have the pesticides, find a suitable receptacle to mix the product with water. Be sure to keep it away from any food or kitchen equipment, and always have a first-aid kit nearby just in case some is spilled. Depending on the warning label, a respirator, goggles and a rubber apron are required. As for clothing, you should be covered as much of your skin as possible, and be sure to wear garden gloves and unlined boots.

Now that you are ready to spray the product, make sure that the weather conditions are suitable for use. If it is between 60 and 85 degrees outside, then it should be safe, but otherwise it is not advised. Also, wind and other extreme weather conditions may spread the pesticide to unwanted areas, so ensure that it is calm outside.

Now you can spray the pesticide using your nozzle or hose attachment. Make sure to spread it evenly across the lawn as though you were watering it normally, though putting emphasis on the more troubled areas is necessary. Once your work is done, be sure to clean all of the equipment and wash your clothing.

Key Information

The first thing to identify is the particular species that is invading your lawn. There are pesticides that cater to particular bugs and fungi, and using an improper kind may do little to repel the pest. When you are shopping for pesticides, be sure to read the label. Some products claim to be able to kill most if not all pests, so be sure to check online reviews or consult the salesperson for recommendations.

As for cleaning your equipment and clothing, there are several things to consider. After spraying the lawn, make sure that any receptacle used to mix or store the pesticides is thoroughly cleaned. Then, before you even clean your goggles and respirator, wash your rubber gloves. Any protective equipment that cannot be placed in the washing machine should be soaped and rinsed in the sink. As for your clothing, it is recommended that you wash it in warm water and use the longest possible length of time to clean. Be sure to shower thoroughly, as well.

Essential Tools

One of the most common ways to spray pesticide is with a backpack attached to a nozzle. According to

domyownpestcontrol.com , sprayers can be purchased for as little as $20 but cost as much as $650. There are however, also hose attachments that you can buy that do not cost too much, but are nevertheless simple to install and employ. The Chapin liquid hose-end sprayer costs little more than 20 dollars, and spares the user much of the post-spray cleaning.

There are also non-toxic options that the more environmentally-conscious can use. Websites like eartheasy sell organic pesticides that use liquids like clove oil or peppermint oil as alternatives.