Before you buy pesticide, what should you always do?

Reading the pesticide label before making a purchase is crucial because the label contains essential information regarding the product's usage, safety precautions, and any restrictions associated with its application. It provides details on the active ingredients, recommended application rates, and the types of pests or plants the pesticide is intended for. Understanding this information helps ensure that the product will be effective for the intended purpose and will be applied safely and in compliance with regulations.

Other options, while they may hold value, do not replace the importance of the label. Consulting an expert is useful for gaining additional insights or clarifications, but the label itself is the primary source of authoritative information that outlines how to properly use the pesticide. Checking for expiration dates, while important for ensuring product efficacy, is not as fundamental as understanding the label’s instructions for safe application. Similarly, testing the pesticide is not a practical or standard step that ensures proper usage; rather, adhering to the provided guidelines on the label is the best course of action.