Lowdown on Pesticides and Fertilizers

A lot of consideration goes into applying pesticides and fertilizers in the safest, most effective way possible, both in your garden and on a farm field. Farmers carefully plan out which product to use and when, where and how much to apply. Concerns are often raised about pesticide residues on food. However, understanding how these products are used can help you trust the safety of your food. This understanding can even be helpful when making decisions in your own garden.

Up to 40 percent of the world’s crops are lost every year because of weeds, pests and diseases. Without pesticides, food crops could be damaged and yields could be severely reduced, which would send food prices soaring. That’s why farmers carefully apply herbicides, fungicides, insecticides and other products to their crops. Greater supply ensures your grocery bill stays affordable.

To help plants grow best, farmers and gardeners alike apply fertilizers at optimal times throughout the growing season. Applying fertilizer at the early stages of growth is beneficial because it can determine the success of the plant. When soil nutrient levels are low, some farmers may choose to add fertilizer or apply it in the fall to prepare the soil for spring planting.

Fertilizers allow crops to absorb extra nutrients that help improve plant health and yields. To help your garden flourish, you may also choose to utilize a pesticide or fertilizer product. Just make sure you follow safety guidelines for storage and application.

Wondering how to safely and effectively use pesticides and fertilizers in your garden? Leave us your questions below.

Learn more about pesticides and fertilizers:
• Environmental Protection Agency: Pesticides
• South Dakota Department of Agriculture: Pesticide Program
• University of Florida: Vegetable Gardening: Applying Fertilizer