Factors affecting the efficacy of pesticides

Pesticides are the most widely used method for pest control in agriculture. However, many farmers often report that the effectiveness of these products is not as expected. Despite the availability of high-quality "good medicines" with proper certifications, new ingredients, and advanced formulations, some products still fail to deliver results. These products have managed to avoid being labeled as "fake medicine," but the number of truly effective pesticides remains limited. After thorough research, it becomes clear that several factors influence pesticide efficacy. First, the inherent properties of the pesticide itself play a significant role. The chemical composition, physical and chemical characteristics, and dosage form all affect how well a pesticide works. Even when using the same active ingredient, different formulations can lead to varying levels of performance. Additionally, differences in production processes and manufacturing capabilities among companies can result in inconsistent quality. In some cases, unscrupulous manufacturers may reduce the actual content of the active ingredient, which directly impacts the product’s effectiveness. Another critical factor is inaccurate disease diagnosis. Many farmers and dealers rely on experience to identify plant diseases, but this approach can lead to mistakes. Fungal and bacterial infections are often confused, and when both are present, farmers might choose only one type of pesticide, leading to ineffective treatment. This misdiagnosis can cause delays in the optimal time for intervention, resulting in poor outcomes and the perception that the pesticide is not working. Spray quality also significantly affects the efficacy of pesticides. In many areas, traditional spraying equipment is used, which produces large droplets that bounce off plant surfaces. As a result, up to 50% of the liquid ends up on the ground rather than on the crops. Reducing droplet size by half increases the number of droplets eightfold, greatly improving coverage and effectiveness. However, some farmers overuse water, thinking it helps the spray adhere better. This actually reduces the concentration of the pesticide on the leaves, making the treatment less effective. To improve spray quality, it's essential to upgrade spraying equipment, use smaller nozzles, and maintain a distance of at least 20 cm between the nozzle and the crop to achieve better atomization. Adding surfactants like silicone-based agents can further enhance adhesion and reduce droplet bounce, especially on plants with waxy or thick leaves. Farmers’ understanding of disease prevention also needs to change. Many adopt a reactive approach, treating pests only after they appear, rather than focusing on proactive measures. Some even use specific fungicides before symptoms occur, believing they offer “special effects.” However, this practice can lead to early resistance development, reducing long-term effectiveness. A more sustainable strategy involves adopting a “prevention first” mindset, using a variety of active ingredients, and rotating products to delay resistance. Misunderstandings about mixing pesticides are also common. Farmers often combine multiple products in an attempt to address all issues at once, but improper mixing can cause chemical incompatibilities, such as pH imbalances, precipitation, or reduced efficacy. It’s important to dilute each pesticide separately, follow the correct order of application, and ensure compatibility between different formulations. Environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, also influence pesticide performance. For example, applying pesticides when dew is still present can dilute the solution, while extreme temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of the product. Ideally, applications should be made between 20°C and 30°C for best results. In conclusion, there is no magic bullet for pest control. Effective management requires a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved—from proper diagnosis and application techniques to formulation choices and environmental conditions. By addressing these elements systematically, farmers can maximize the benefits of pesticide use while minimizing waste and resistance risks.

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