Before adding the pesticide to the spray tank, what should you ensure is done first?

Ensuring that the carrier is thoroughly agitated before adding the pesticide to the spray tank is crucial for several reasons. Proper agitation helps to evenly disperse any soluble and insoluble components present in both the water and the pesticide. This ensures that the pesticide is mixed evenly with the carrier, reducing the chance of clumping or settling that can lead to inconsistent application rates. When the pesticide is not well mixed, it can result in ineffective pest control, potential crop damage, or environmental harm due to uneven distribution.

Proper agitation also helps activate certain formulations that may need to be mixed before use. This step is fundamental to achieving maximum efficacy from the pesticide, as many active ingredients can separate or settle over time. Therefore, agitating the carrier properly is essential for achieving the desired results in pest management practices.