ST. PAUL, Minn. – With the arrival of spring, people begin to think
about their lawns, trees, and gardens. Whether you apply pesticides or
fertilizers on your own or hire a professional, the Minnesota Department
of Agriculture (MDA) reminds everyone to avoid contact with lawn care
products, read the product label and follow all label directions. The
directions on a product label will explain how to use a product safely
and effectively.
Minnesota
law requires anyone commercially applying weed and feed products;
pesticides that control weeds, insects, fungus or other unwanted pests;
and/or fertilizers supplying plant nutrients to hold a license issued by
the MDA. Persons licensed by MDA have passed examinations that
demonstrate that they have the needed qualifications and knowledge to
use lawn and ornamental care chemicals safely and effectively.
Most
professional applicators understand the importance of obeying the Law,
according to MDA Licensing Manager Joe Spitzmueller, and abide by state
and federal regulations.
“It
is essential that people read and follow label directions to reduce
risks for people and the environment,” said Spitzmueller. “Watch out for
unqualified persons and companies promoting tree, lawn and garden care
services.”
Whether
you are hiring a professional or doing the work yourself, these tips
from the MDA will help ensure lawn, garden and tree-care services are
performed correctly:
- Licensed professionals must carry a valid ID card;
- Be cautious of persons who make promises that are too good to be true, make claims that their products are completely safe, or pressure you to commit to and sign a service contract;
- Never apply lawn care chemicals in bad weather conditions, such as in excessive heat or in high wind where products can drift off-site and potentially harm people or plants;
- Notice warning flags that are posted at entry points after a treatment that alert persons to be careful around a treated area;
- Sweep up any product from sidewalks or other hard surfaces and reapply it to the intended site;
- Review the application record provided by the applicator that documents their work including products used and amounts applied; and
- Buy only what you need and store unused product safely.
