When selecting a formulation for pesticide application, what should be considered first?

When selecting a formulation for pesticide application, the primary focus should be on the degree of control desired. This is crucial because the effectiveness of the pesticide in managing the target pest or weed is the foremost concern for achieving successful pest management. If the selected formulation does not provide the desired level of control, the application may fail, leading to economic loss, increased pest populations, and potentially harmful consequences for the environment.

While cost, safety, and ease of transportation are also important factors to consider, they come into play after the assessment of control effectiveness. A lower-cost option or one that is easier to transport may not be suitable if it does not perform adequately against the pests in question. Similarly, safety is an essential consideration, but if the product is not effective, its safety becomes irrelevant since the primary goal of pest management will not be met. Thus, ensuring the formulation can deliver the desired control is the foundation upon which all other considerations rest.