What are the three ways to group pesticides?

Grouping pesticides based on target, properties, and residual effectiveness is a widely recognized and practical approach for understanding and applying pesticide products effectively.

Target refers to the specific pests or plants that the pesticide is aimed at controlling, such as insects, weeds, or diseases. Identifying the targeted pest helps in selecting the right pesticide for effective pest management.

Properties involve the chemical composition and mode of action of the pesticide, which includes classifications like systemic versus contact, or whether the pesticide is selective or non-selective. Understanding these properties assists in predicting how the pesticide will behave in the environment and its effectiveness against certain pests.

Residual effectiveness indicates how long a pesticide remains active and effective after application. This is crucial for determining the timing of applications and how often a pesticide needs to be reapplied, which can significantly influence both efficacy and environmental safety.

This classification method provides a comprehensive framework for pesticide selection and usage, focusing on key factors that impact efficacy and safety.