Pyrethroid Stewardship for Pollinators

Efforts To Protect And Conserve Pollinators

Inspired by naturally occurring chemicals found in chrysanthemums, Pyrethroids are effective at controlling nuisance pests that can spread fatal diseases to humans and also damage plants and food.

In order to avoid harm to pollinators, pyrethroids should not be applied to blooming plants or flowers in order to avoid unintentional exposure to insect pollinators.

Using proper application practices when applying pyrethroids, or any pesticide, is very important to minimize risks to our environment, beneficial insects, and pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

All pesticides must be used responsibly around honeybees and other insect pollinators when label directions and stewardship practices are followed. Proper pesticide use starts with reading the label.

How You Can Protect Bees and Butterflies

To help protect pollinators, the Pyrethroid Working Group would like to offer the following tips to help you practice Integrated Pest Management in your garden:

  • When you notice pest activity, take the time to figure out the cause and consider the best-suited control measures. Low levels of damage may not warrant the use of a pesticide.
  • Remove items that attract unwanted pests – standing water, rotting fruit or vegetables, pet waste, etc.
  • Learn what type of insect is eating your plants before you decide to apply a pesticide.
  • Only apply pesticides labeled for the identified pest; use only when necessary and follow the recommended use rates and proper timing outlined on the label to ensure you are using the right product for the pest.
  • Always read the label first. This will help you determine if the pesticide should or should not be used on pre-bloom or blooming plants (which attract pollinators)
  • Only treat the specific areas where harmful insects are present
  • Only spray at dusk when pollinators are not typically in the garden
  • Avoid spraying areas where native pollinators live such as hedge rows and natural areas.
  • Create habitat areas with milkweed and flowering native plants that will attract pollinators and keep them away from garden beds that may require pesticide treatments.

To learn more about pollinators, please visit: www.pollinator.org or download this brochure to learn more about protecting insect pollinators on farms and in urban landscapes.

To learn more about programs for assisting Pest Management Professionals (PMPs) with training and education on best application practices, please visit www.pwg2pmp.com