western-queensland-gardening-guide.pdf - South West NRM

Sulphur controls mites on many garden plants. It should not be used in hot weather as
it tends to burn tender plant tissue. Pyrethrin is a useful contact insecticide as it can be
applied to witlun one day of harvest. It is relatively less toxic to humans, but not as
effective as some other formulations.
Dicofo1 controls mites on many garden plants. te oil is an important component in
sprays for citrus scale control. Trichlorfon may be used to control caterpillar pests (for
example bean pod borer, cutworms, lawn grubs and macadamia flower caterpillar)
and fruit spotting bugs. Fenamiphos is a nematicide effective against pests such as
root knot nematode. Its granular formulation is considered the safest form to use.
However, it should always be handled with great care, including the use of protective
clothing.
The home gardener can deal with most pest infestations with these chemicals. There is
duplication of activity against some pests, and some of these materials could be
omitted without seriously interfering with the overall range of protection.
For all chemicals the same rules apply: keep all safely locked up and secure from
children, and always be careful when handling or ing pesticides. One reason for
their inclusion on this list is that all chemicals are fairly safe to use. But all insecticides
are poisonous to humans to some degree. Treat them with respect.
Pesticide sdety
Use of any chemicals in the home garden must be treated with extreme caution, and in
accordance with the directions on the product container. Insecticides, in particular,
can have serious side effects if used improperly.
Accurate measuring of chemicals and use of rubber gloves, overalls, respirators and
proper spray equipment are all essential to avoid poisoning.
Many chemicals are made with an odour additive to warn people of the danger of
using it: generally the worse something smells, the more care is needed.