The Growing Matters coalition is reminding farmers and applicators to read and follow the label, evaluate conditions before spraying and communicate with beekeepers to keep pollinators safe.

Boosting yields and increasing revenue are primary goals for many farmers each growing season. Foliar-applied crop protection products can help you achieve these goals without endangering surrounding wildlife if they are properly stewarded and applied according to the label. That’s the focus of this year’s nationwide BeSure! stewardship-awareness campaign, which reminds growers and applicators of some simple steps they can take to ensure pesticides will not harm insects, pollinators and other wildlife.

First and foremost, BeSure! you read and follow the label with each new product purchase. Labels can frequently change, so it’s important to refresh your knowledge before applying. When using foliar applications, it’s essential to observe the application timing relative to the blooming stage of the crop and other plants in the area. This helps reduce potential exposure or harm to insect pollinators.

Additionally, wind speed and direction, temperature and humidity are all important considerations when evaluating application conditions. BeSure! to check out the label for the specific requirements to follow depending on the crop protection product you plan to use.

Communication is key – remember to cooperate with other farmers, landowners, applicators, beekeepers, crop advisors and local officials when using these technologies. If there are insect pollinator habitats or hives nearby, plan in advance so you can establish appropriate buffers or no-spray zones in addition to calibrating equipment to minimize spray drift. Leverage the tools that are at your disposal, such as FieldWatch and BeeCheck to help track beehive colonies and keep the product in the field away from non-target insects and areas.

Foliar-applied crop protection products are important pest-management tools that protect plants from harmful threats. With best practices in place, these crop protection products can help ensure a successful growing season. For additional information about product stewardship, please visit www.growingmatters.org/besure.

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