For example, many diseases are controlled by the use of resistant varieties, crop rotation, deep plowing, sanitation, seed treatment, and cultural practices. Get top-quality seed and plants from reliable commercial sources. Seed ordinarily are treated by the commercial seed producer for the control of seed decay and damping-off. Good cultural practices involve proper fertility, proper spacing of plants, adequate soil drainage, and others. Where these practices are established, pesticide use often can be reduced, depending on the situation, and can lower production cost.
Variables influence the performance of a pesticide.
Time of application, nozzle arrangement, dilutions, spray pressure, chemical rate per unit area, and rainfall are some variables associated with chemical application technology. Beginning spray programs before or at the first sign of disease is best. Starting a spray program when disease is visible through the windshield of a vehicle costs less initially but often results in substandard yields or crop destruction. Safe and proper use of pesticides is essential. The products label is the best source for information concerning handling and application of that product.