What Does Broad Spectrum Pesticide Mean?
A broad-spectrum pesticide is a powerful pesticide that targets entire groups or species of organisms that are commonly harmful to plants. Another name for a broad-spectrum pesticide is a non-selective pesticide.
Unlike narrow-spectrum pesticides, broad-spectrum pesticides can target large amounts of crops at the same time, that might be plagued by more than one type of pest, and is therefore commonly used by farmers who need a fast-acting, guaranteed solution to an unknown problem.
To successfully eliminate a harmful organism, broad spectrum pesticides commonly target the muscular or the nervous system of a wide range of pests. Some examples of broad-spectrum pesticides include organophosphate, carbamate, acetamiprid, pyrethroid, and neonicotinoid insecticides.
Maximum Yield Explains Broad Spectrum Pesticide
Broad-spectrum pesticides are commonly used when an unknown organism is attacking the crops. For example, if a farmer suspects his crop is being overrun by aphids, he can apply a broad-spectrum pesticide that will likely kill the infestation, regardless if it was aphids, or some other pest, like mites.
Methyl Bromide is a popular broad spectrum pesticide that can easily eliminate large rodents and weeds as well as smaller pathogens, insects, and other types of pests. This particular pesticide can be injected directly into the ground, but in some cases it is also pumped directly into barns or warehouses in order to eradicate any pest that could harm the plant while it’s in storage.
In some cases, broad-spectrum pesticides can be harmful to beneficial insects, especially bees and other pollinators. Their use is not favored by organic growers and consumers who strive to obtain healthier crops that are free from harsh pesticides. However, their effectiveness and affordability often leave some cash crop farmers with no other options.
