Formulations
RTU's Are Made for You!
RTU's Are Made for You!
The subject at hand is pesticide formulations, and I know you are ecstatic to learn about this topic! A pesticide formulation consists of active and inert (inactive) ingredients that are combined to form an end-use pesticide product. Just to review, active ingredients are the chemicals in the pesticide product that affect or control the target pest. Inert, or inactive, ingredients are added to dilute the pesticide to make it safer, more effective, or easier to handle. Common pesticide formulations you may see at your local garden center include:
The subject at hand is pesticide formulations, and I know you are ecstatic to learn about this topic! A pesticide formulation consists of active and inert (inactive) ingredients that are combined to form an end-use pesticide product. Just to review, active ingredients are the chemicals in the pesticide product that affect or control the target pest. Inert, or inactive, ingredients are added to dilute the pesticide to make it safer, more effective, or easier to handle. Common pesticide formulations you may see at your local garden center include:
- Ready-to-use (RTU) products have been formulated so that no further mixing is required. This is especially good news for consumers and homeowners since mixing can be difficult and potentially dangerous. RTUs are made for you!
- Aerosols are RTU pesticide formulations that produce a fine droplet spray when the nozzle valve is triggered. They are a convenient way to buy a small amount of pesticide. However, be careful – aerosols pose the risk of inhalation exposure. Wasp- and hornet-control products are commonly sold as aerosols.
- Baits are RTU pesticide formulations that attract and kill the target pest. Some baits may be sought out by the pest; others may be placed where the pest is active. Ant-, roach-, and rodent-control products are commonly sold as baits.
- Most dusts are RTU pesticide formulations, and they are always used as dry applications. Use with caution – dusts may drift off the target site and can cause inhalation exposure. Dusts are sometimes used to control various ornamental and garden pests.
- Granules are RTU pesticide formulations that slowly release the active ingredient. They require application equipment to broadcast the coarse particles. Examples of common granular products are turf fertilizers, which often contain herbicides for weed control.
- Liquid concentrates are not RTU pesticides and require further mixing and application equipment. They are relatively easy to handle, but use caution when mixing to avoid splashes and spills. Several types of pesticides are available as liquid concentrates.
- Pellets are RTU pesticide formulations that are similar to granules, but with a more uniform shape and size. Pellets are often used for spot treatments. Slug bait is commonly sold as a pellet formulation for ornamental and garden purposes.
- Water-soluble formulations are not RTU pesticides. Although relatively easy to handle, mixing is required. These products will readily dissolve in water to form a true solution. An example of a water-soluble product (though not a pesticide) is fertilizer for indoor plants or outdoor vegetable/ornamental gardens.
