FOR RELIABLE FOOD
SAFE AND PROPER USE OF AGRICULTURAL PESTICIDES

Food is as essential as air and water for human survival. It is impossible for humans to live without nourishment and obtaining the necessary food. Today, millions of people worldwide lose their lives due to insufficient food, while millions more face hunger due to food scarcity. In the future, the need for food will be even greater.

Our known food sources are derived from animal, plant, and aquatic products. Among these, plant-based foods hold a special place in human nutrition. Thanks to its vast and fertile agricultural lands, Turkey is among the fortunate countries in this regard. To adequately and sustainably nourish our growing population and even produce for export, we must protect our agricultural lands and obtain more yield per unit area—in other words, increase productivity. The only way to boost productivity is by adopting and expanding the “Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)” currently being implemented.

Within GAP, effectively combating plant diseases, pests, and weeds holds a distinct significance. These harmful organisms, which cause up to 40% annual crop loss, must be managed efficiently. The approach to be followed in this struggle should be based on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. Agricultural pest control should adhere strictly to IPM principles, and pesticides should only be used as a last resort! Reliable food can only be produced in this way!

As the sector’s oldest and most experienced “National Civil Society Organization,” we aim to ensure that farmers and pesticide applicators benefit from the information provided here, enabling effective pest control and reliable food production.

IPM and Modern Agricultural Pest Control

The primary goal of agricultural pest control is to effectively combat plant diseases, pests, and weeds, which cause significant product losses of 20-40%, and recover these losses as much as possible. As those in the field well know, there is a saying: “People do not harvest what they sow but what remains after diseases and pests have taken their share, and some of that is lost during harvest, transport, and storage.” This statement forms the basis of this struggle.

Regardless of how well the soil is prepared, the quality of seeds, certified seedlings, and saplings, or the level of plant nutrition, plant diseases, pests, and weeds will inevitably cause damage, leading to significant product losses. These losses range between 20-40%. If no action is taken against these threats, losses can reach up to 65% or even 75-80% for certain crops. In a world where millions cannot find even a single piece of bread to sustain themselves, such losses cannot be ignored.

For farmers who rely heavily on agriculture for their livelihood, inaction is not an option. Hence, combating plant diseases, pests, and weeds is unavoidable.

The most effective method for this struggle today is IPM, or Integrated Pest Management. IPM involves a coordinated and appropriate combination of all control methods. This system can also be referred to as “Modern Agricultural Pest Control.” In this system, alternative methods—such as cultural precautions, biological control, biotechnical methods, resistant varieties, and genetic control—should be prioritized in combating plant diseases, pests, and weeds. Chemical control should only be used if these methods fail to control the diseases, pests, or weeds. This is the essence of IPM.

Fundamental Principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

1. Address diseases, pests, and weeds in a given ecosystem collectively, not separately, and use all control methods and techniques in harmony.
2. Prioritize alternative methods. Resort to chemical control only as a last resort if these methods fail.
3. The purpose of chemical control is not to completely eradicate diseases, pests, and weeds that harm plants. The goal is to reduce their population density to a level that does not cause economic damage—below the “economic damage threshold.” Keep this in mind!
4. Depending on the plant’s phenology, the economic threshold and the control threshold may vary. This distinction is crucial for making control decisions.
5. Protect the natural enemies of pests in the area being treated. The presence of some weeds and pests is vital for these natural enemies to survive. Follow the chemical control principles outlined in Principle 2.
6. Learn the migration paths of beekeepers. Obtain necessary information about their routes, periods, and accommodations. Do not spray blooming plants while bees are active.

Choosing the Right Pesticide

1. When you wish to purchase agricultural pesticides, first have a prescription written by a certified expert authorized by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock.
2. Always buy agricultural pesticides from licensed “Pesticide Dealers” authorized by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock.
3. Ensure that the pesticide label includes its registration date and number, production date, the name of the pest, disease, or weed it targets, the recommended dosage, and the manufacturer’s name.
4. Only purchase licensed pesticides. Selling unlicensed pesticides is illegal for dealers.
5. Never buy pesticides without a Turkish label or those that are unlicensed, counterfeit, or smuggled.
6. Consult the prescribing expert about when and how often the pesticide should be applied.
7. Purchase only the amount of pesticide you need and retain the invoice until the expected results are achieved.

Precautions for Transporting and Storing Pesticides

1. Keep pesticides away from food items during transportation and storage!
2. Store them in a locked, secure cabinet placed out of reach of children and pets.

Recommendations on the Label of Agricultural Pesticides

1. The LABEL on an agricultural pesticide contains all the necessary information and is approved by the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock.
2. The recommended amount (dose) of the pesticide, as indicated on the label for specific plants and the pests, diseases, or weeds affecting them, is determined through research conducted in at least two different geographical regions in Turkey under the supervision of the Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Livestock. Pesticides recommended for greenhouse use are pre-tested in greenhouse environments.

The “Dose” Information on the Pesticide Label

1. The application dose indicated on the pesticide label represents the most effective, safe, and optimal quantity to prevent damage caused by the target pest.
2. This dose is determined based on scientific studies adhering to the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) regulations.
3. The recommended dose is the ideal and safe amount to combat pests, diseases, or weeds in plants.
4. When applied at the suggested dose, the pesticide will not leave residues above the legal tolerance limit (MRL).

Key Considerations When Buying a Sprayer

1. The equipment should display identifying technical details, manufacturing year, serial number, licensing date, and company information.
2. The sprayer should ensure homogeneous dispersion and maintain its settings during application.
3. It must operate without fluctuations in flow rate or pressure during use.
4. Spray nozzles should be easily adjustable.
5. The equipment should not leak or drip during filling and emptying.
6. It should not cause environmental pollution.
7. The mixing mechanism of the sprayer should function effectively.
8. Cleaning the equipment should be simple.
9. Excess flow in the system should be easily returned to the tank.
10. Tank level indicators should be clearly visible.
11. The accuracy of measuring instruments should be easily verifiable.
12. If the tank capacity is 100 liters or more, it should contain at least one wave breaker.
13. Tank interiors should be smooth and non-slippery, with no sharp corners or liquid-retaining cavities.

Choosing the Right Nozzle for Agricultural Pesticide Applications

1. When applying insecticides or fungicides, use nozzles designed for fine droplets that ensure full coverage of the target area.
2. For herbicide applications, opt for fan-shaped nozzles that produce larger droplets.
3. In orchards and vineyards, adjust the nozzle directions on the sprayer system to cover the plant’s leaf surface area effectively.
4. Adjust the airflow of the sprayer to ensure the pesticide droplets reach the target completely.
5. Optimize the spray angles of the nozzles for proper coverage.
6. Avoid using worn-out nozzles

The Importance of Drop Size in Pesticide Application

1. Different nozzle types create different drop sizes.
2. Changing the application pressure alters the drop size.
3. When pressure increases, drops become smaller; when pressure decreases, drops become larger.
4. Small drops provide better coverage on the target surface, but they can be blown away by wind.
5. Large drops are less affected by wind but may provide insufficient coverage.
6. Avoid using high working pressure as much as possible.
7. Prevent variations in flow rate.

What Pesticide Applicators (Operators) Need to Know

1. Learn the plant’s phenology and biology thoroughly.
2. Know the pests, diseases, and weeds to be controlled well.
3. Understand where and how these agents cause damage, and identify the critical times for control.
4. Determine the correct pesticide, dose, and application time.
5. Perform maintenance, adjustments, and calibration of the equipment thoroughly. For this:
   1. Select the appropriate sprayer based on the size of the area to be treated, the characteristics of the area, application frequency, and environmental factors.
   2. Check the sprayer’s nuts, bolts, safety devices, oil, fuel, hoses, valves, filters, and nozzles. Make necessary adjustments and settings.
   3. Choose the correct nozzle to provide the required drop size and flow rate for the area being treated.
   4. Nozzles can wear out after a certain number of hours of use. Do not use worn-out nozzles (a nozzle that produces 10% more than the average flow rate is considered worn).
   5. If applying insecticides or fungicides, use nozzles that produce small drops directed at the target.
   6. If applying herbicides, use nozzles that produce relatively larger drops with a fan spray.
   7. Adjust the spray angles and flow rates of the nozzles according to the nature of the application.
   8. Since drop size varies with nozzle type and application pressure, adjust the drop size according to recommendations.
   9. Avoid working with high pressures in commonly used hydraulic sprayers in fields, vineyards, and orchards. If a flow rate adjustment is needed, change the nozzle size instead of increasing pressure.
   10. In orchards and vineyards, adjust the nozzles to ensure the spray covers the entire leaf surface.
   11. For hydraulic sprayers used in orchards and vineyards with air flow, adjust fan settings and air flow rate to ensure the pesticide reaches the target effectively. To verify correct settings, perform a test application with clean water in the field.
   12. Check all connection points, hoses, and filters of the sprayer.
   13. Determine the application volume and norm (L or h).
   14. Correctly set the application pressure (bar) and tractor speed.
   15. Adjust the regulator and verify the pressure setting.

Precautions to Take Before Starting Pesticide Application

1. Wear your work clothes, rubber gloves, and goggles.
2. Carefully read the “Preparation for Application” section on the pesticide label.
3. Take necessary safety precautions in your surroundings and place a warning sign in the area where you will apply the pesticide.
4. Determine the amount of pesticide to be added to the tank based on the label information.
5. Fill the pesticide tank with clean water up to 2/3 of its capacity.
6. When using the mixer: a) If the pesticide is in powder form, first mix a small amount with clean water in a separate container, then pour it into the machine’s tank. b) If the pesticide is in liquid form, it can be added directly to the tank. c) If the sprayer has a pre-mixing and preparation tank, prepare the pesticide mixture in that tank and then transfer it to the main tank.
7. Mix the pesticide for about 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, while the mixing process continues, fill the tank with clean water and prepare the sprayer for application.

Precautions During Pesticide Application

1. The operator must ensure that all preset parameters are followed, and safety measures are in place.
2. The operator must continue to monitor potential issues, such as nozzle blockages, pressure changes, and leaks from hoses and connections, during the application process.
3. During the application, leave a safety buffer zone (no-spray zone) near water sources or sensitive crops.
4. When approaching row ends or turning, close the valve, and open it again when starting a new row.
5. Apply the pesticide in windless and rain-free weather, preferably in the early morning or evening. Avoid application when the temperature is above 30°C, relative humidity is below 40%, and wind speed exceeds 15 km/h.
6. Upon reaching the field, take all safety precautions listed on the pesticide label.
7. Do not eat or drink during the application.
8. If there is a light breeze, apply the pesticide with the wind at your back to prevent the pesticide from blowing back onto you.
9. Ensure that all branches of the plant are thoroughly wetted until the drops reach the targeted areas.
10. Do not apply the pesticide outside the target area.
11. Complete the prepared pesticide-water mixture quickly without any breaks.
12. Follow the pesticide application intervals recommended on the label for repeated applications.

Precautions to Consider When Applying Pesticides in Greenhouses

1. Target the primary pest when applying pesticides.
2. Ensure that plants are primarily grown in healthy conditions.
3. For pest control, first try cultural practices and alternative control methods.
4. Protect plants that harbor and feed natural enemies; do not spray them with pesticides.
5. Prefer control methods and pesticides that have minimal impact on natural enemies.
6. Since pesticide residue issues may be more significant in greenhouses, consider the harvesting frequency and choose pesticides with an appropriate “last spraying-harvest” interval.
7. To prevent resistance development, use pesticides containing different active ingredient groups in rotation, as recommended.
8. In weed control, avoid using pesticides when possible and prefer tilling or hand weeding methods.
9. Use mechanical or motorized backpack sprayers, backpack atomizers, small cart sprayers, mist blowers, and sprayers with rotary disc nozzles for pesticide application.
10. Pesticide applications in greenhouses carry an evaporation risk that may harm the operator. To avoid this and protect the operator, ensure the plant leaves are dry, humidity is not too high, and the temperature is between 18-29°C. If possible, apply pesticides in the evening.

Post-Pesticide Application Maintenance and Cleaning

1. Dilute the remaining pesticide liquid in the tank with at least 10 times the amount of water and apply it to the treated area.
2. Wash the external parts of the sprayer and tractor that came into contact with the pesticide using plenty of soapy water.
3. Clean the interior of the tank, all filters, and nozzles, and reassemble them.
4. Ensure there is no water left inside the tank.
5. Leave the tank lid open for a while to allow it to ventilate.
6. Clean pesticide-contaminated containers with soapy water. Do not dispose of pesticide wastewater indiscriminately; collect it in the sprayer tank and apply it to the treated area.
7. Dispose of empty pesticide containers in the nearest “container” designated for packaging collection. Never use empty pesticide containers for other purposes; do not throw them in streams, lakes, canals, or the sea.
8. Remove your work clothes, gloves, and goggles, and wash your hands with plenty of soap and water.
9. Thoroughly wash the areas of your body that may have come into contact with pesticides, especially your eyes, with soapy water.
10. Do not allow people or animals to enter the treated area for some time.
11. Ensure that the warning sign you placed in the treated area is still in place.
12. Always adhere to the “last spraying-harvest interval” and ensure compliance with it.

What to Do in Case of Pesticide Poisoning

1. If you experience unusual symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, or nausea during pesticide application, stop the spraying immediately!
2. In case of pesticide poisoning, go to the nearest health center with the pesticide packaging.
3. In any poisoning situation, call the “National Poison Control Center” at the 24-hour toll-free number 114.