How to Apply Insecticides Safely to Your Garden

Insecticides are garden chemicals that are used to kill insect pests in your garden. Applied correctly, they are an efficient and relatively safe way to control insects that spread disease and eat your valuable garden plants.

Things You'll Need

• Garden Sprayer
• Neoprene Gloves
• Pollen/dust Masks
• Safety Goggles
• Neoprene gloves

Instructions

1. Test the sprayer every time you use it. Fill it with water; pump up the pressure and test to see that the nozzle is not plugged. Release the pressure by unscrewing the lid slightly.

2. Remove the lid. Leave the testing water in the tank.

3. Measure the amount of insecticide exactly and according to label directions. Add the insecticide to the water in the sprayer. Rinse the measuring device by adding more water to the tank to make up the balance.

4. Screw on the top, being careful not to cross the threads. Tighten so that the pressure will not escape from the tank.

5. Pump the handle to increase the pressure inside the tank.

6. Spray the plants, making sure to cover both upper and lower sides of the leaves where insects like to hide.

7. Spray out all of the material in the tank. Don't leave any unused insecticide in the tank.

8. Clean the empty tank over a dirt area, never over concrete or in a sink. Never allow unused insecticide to flow into storm drains because they may harm fish and aquatic life.

9. Rinse the tank three separate times, spraying clean water through the nozzle each time.

Tips & Warnings

• Use organic insecticides such as insecticidal soap. Always use the least toxic method of control as your first step.

• Apply insecticides when the insects are feeding, usually early morning or early evening.

• Spray only the plants that are infested. Insecticides also kill garden-friendly bugs.

• Never mix more chemicals than you intend to use at one time.

• Always follow label directions.

• When spraying insecticides, wear protective clothing, including safety goggles, respirator, neoprene gloves and long sleeves.

• Never carry a sprayer by the hose; always use the handle. Hoses will work themselves loose if not treated with care. Check hose connectors frequently.

• Never use measuring tools from your kitchen. Keep a dedicated set of measuring tools in your garden shed.