The label rate of an insecticide is 5 ounces per 1000 square feet. The sprayer is applying at a rate of 2 gallons/1000 square feet. How much pesticide should be added per gallon of a spray mix?

• A. 1 ounce
• B. 2.5 ounces
• C. 3 ounces
• D. 10 ounces

Answer: (B)

To stay within the label, use the same ratio of pesticide to spray volume as specified by the label. The label calls for 5 ounces of pesticide for 1000 square feet. The spray mix is being applied at a rate of 2 gallons for the same 1000 square feet. So, determine how much pesticide goes into each gallon by dividing the total pesticide amount by the total gallons: 5 ounces ÷ 2 gallons = 2.5 ounces per gallon. Therefore, add 2.5 ounces of pesticide for every gallon of spray mix. If you used less than that, you’d under-treat; using more would over-treat.