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DISEASE CONTROL - CHEMICAL CONTROL

Very few fungicides and bactericides are available for use by homeowners. When choosing a pesticide for home use, be sure that the plant to which the product is to be applied is listed on the pesticide label. If the plant is not listed, then use of the pesticide on that plant is illegal and punishable by fine or imprisonment.

Once you decide to use a pesticide, be sure to use that product safely. Read the entire pesticide label before using it and be sure to follow the instructions on the label. The label will provide detailed information on the kinds of plants that can be treated, how much of the product and how often the product can be used, the type of clothing that must be worn when using the pesticide and the length of time you must wait after applying the pesticide before you can again work in or eat produce from your garden.

Pesticide applicator training is available for anyone who is contemplating working with or applying pesticides. While training is designed primarily for people who want to become professional pesticide applicators, I also recommend it for homeowners. For a nominal fee, the training provides extensive, very easy to understand information on pesticides and their use.