To protect pollinators, when should you avoid applying pesticides?

To protect pollinators, when should you avoid applying pesticides?

• A. When weeds or crops are in bloom
• B. When pests are abundant
• C. During drought conditions
• D. During harvest

Answer: (A)

Pollinators are active when flowers are blooming, visiting them for nectar and pollen. Spraying pesticides during bloom exposes bees and other pollinators to the chemicals through nectar, pollen, or direct contact, which can kill them or disrupt their foraging and the pollination they provide. That’s why the best way to protect pollinators is to avoid pesticide applications when weeds or crops are in bloom. If you must treat near bloom, plan after flowering or use options labeled as safe for pollinators and follow label directions and drift-reduction practices. The other situations don’t address the direct exposure risk pollinators face during flowering.

Pollinators are active when flowers are blooming, visiting them for nectar and pollen. Spraying pesticides during bloom exposes bees and other pollinators to the chemicals through nectar, pollen, or direct contact, which can kill them or disrupt their foraging and the pollination they provide. That’s why the best way to protect pollinators is to avoid pesticide applications when weeds or crops are in bloom. If you must treat near bloom, plan after flowering or use options labeled as safe for pollinators and follow label directions and drift-reduction practices. The other situations don’t address the direct exposure risk pollinators face during flowering.