What is meant by soil incorporation in pesticide application?

Soil incorporation in pesticide application refers to the practice of mixing the pesticide into the soil using tillage implements. This method is vital for ensuring that the pesticide is effectively integrated into the root zone of target plants or pests, which helps enhance its efficacy. By incorporating the pesticide into the soil, it can better reach the targeted pest species while minimizing environmental risks associated with surface runoff or degradation from UV exposure.

In contrast to the incorporation method, leaving a pesticide on the surface does not allow for adequate interaction with soil-borne pests or plants, which may reduce its effectiveness. Applying pesticides only to crops limits the action of the pesticide to the foliage and does not address soil-dwelling pests, and spreading pesticide over large areas can lead to uneven distribution and potential harm to non-target organisms without the benefits gained from incorporation methods.