What is pesticide phytotoxicity?

• A. Insects killed
• B. Benefit to crops
• C. Injury to plants
• D. Soil fertility improvement

Answer: (C)

Pesticide phytotoxicity is injury to plants caused by a pesticide. It happens when a chemical intended to protect crops ends up harming the plants themselves, often due to sensitive crop varieties, applying at the wrong rate or at the wrong growth stage, or under adverse environmental conditions like heat, wind, or drought. Symptoms can include leaf burn or scorching, yellowing (chlorosis), bronzing or necrosis, stunted growth, or distorted leaves.

Various factors contribute to phytotoxicity: using a product on a crop not labeled for it, drift onto nearby plants, improper adjuvants or tank mixes, and environmental stress that makes plants more susceptible. To minimize risk, follow label directions exactly, use proper sprayer calibration, apply under appropriate weather, and avoid incompatible combinations.

This concept is about injury to plants, not about killing pests, providing a crop benefit, or improving soil fertility.