How to Choose Pesticides

Pesticide Selection: Targeting the Right Pesticide is Key—Focus on Formulation and Concentration. Choosing the wrong pesticide not only fails to control pests and diseases but may also cause pesticide damage and contaminate crops. For us farmers, the core principle in selecting pesticides boils down to one thing: targeted, legitimate, and appropriate.
1. Identify the pest or disease first, then select the pesticide: For example, use Dithane for vegetable downy mildew, triazole for powdery mildew, and imidacloprid for rice planthoppers. Don't blindly follow recommendations from agricultural supply store owners. Memorize the specific pesticides for common pests and diseases to avoid being tricked into buying overpriced or incorrect products.
2. Consider formulation and concentration: The same pesticide may come in emulsifiable concentrate, suspension concentrate, powder, etc. Small-scale growers should choose suspension concentrates or water-soluble formulations—they have lower toxicity and fewer residues, making them suitable for fruits, vegetables, and daily farming. Don't always go for the highest concentration. Dilute according to the instructions. Low-concentration, properly registered pesticides work just as well when used correctly and save money.
3. Verify Legitimate Markings: Like fertilizers, pesticide packaging must display the pesticide registration number, production license, product standard number, toxicity labels, usage instructions, and expiration date. Pesticides past their expiration date lose significant efficacy and should never be used.