Tips to handle pesticides and fertilizers with care

By Scout Nelson

As Minnesotans enjoy the warm spring weather, many are gearing up to tend to their gardens and lawns. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) reminds everyone to use pesticides and fertilizers safely and legally. Following the label directions on these products is not just a recommendation—it's a legal requirement in Minnesota.

Tips for those applying these products themselves:

• Read and Follow Label Directions: Always adhere to the instructions on the product label. In Minnesota, this compliance is not optional; the label is the law.
• Avoid Application in Adverse Conditions: Do not apply products during windy or adverse weather conditions, as this can lead to drift, potentially harming people, pets, or nearby plants.
• Clean Up Residues: Ensure that any product residue on sidewalks or driveways is swept up and reapplied to the target area to prevent contamination of water supplies.
• Purchase Judiciously: Only buy the amount of product you actually need. This minimizes waste and simplifies storage and disposal of any unused products.

Tips for those opting for professional lawn care:

• Verify Licensing: Confirm that the lawn care provider is licensed by the MDA. Ask to see their pesticide applicator license before they begin work.
• Check Credentials Online: Licensed professionals can be verified on the MDA website under “Fertilizer Companies with Commercial Pesticide Applicators” or “Pesticide Applicator/Manure License” with a “Commercial Pesticide Applicator – Turf and Ornamentals” license type.
• Beware of Misleading Claims: Exercise caution if a provider claims their products are completely safe or pressures you to sign a service contract.
• Inspect Warning Flags: Look for and respect warning flags in areas that have been chemically treated, indicating recent pesticide application.
• Review Application Records: Licensed applicators must provide records of their applications, including the types and quantities of products used.
• Ensure Clean-up Practices: Make sure the applicator cleans up any dry or granular products from sidewalks and other hard surfaces.

For more information or assistance contact the MDA at 651-201-6615. They can provide further guidance on the safe and legal use of pesticides and fertilizers. If you suspect illegal application practices or encounter unlicensed applicators, please call the MDA at 651-201-6333 to report them.

Following these guidelines ensures that your outdoor spaces remain beautiful and healthy, while also protecting Minnesota's environment and adhering to state regulations.

Photo Credit -gettyimages-joshua-resnick