Vegetable Chemical Use Data Is Now Available Online

The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has published the 2010 Agricultural Chemical Use survey data for vegetables. The data, gathered in 19 states during the fall of 2010, are the result of 3,272 individual survey responses.

The information released includes on-farm use of commercial fertilizers, agricultural chemicals, and integrated pest management practices by producers of targeted vegetable crops. Chemical application rates listed by active ingredient are featured in the release data.

According to the survey, when it comes to pest management, growers reported using several different practices to deter pests, including prevention, avoidance, monitoring, and suppression strategies.

When it comes to avoidance, 81% of respondents said they rotated crops during the past three years. Scouting for insects and mites was the most commonly used monitoring practice at 93%.

The survey also found that the most frequently used pest suppression practice was the use of ground covers, including mulches or physical barriers, a practice used on 48% of the farms. Alternating pesticides with different application methods was used on 69% of the acreage.

The agricultural chemical use estimates in this release focus on the acreage treated with herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and other pesticides for selected vegetable crops. For additional data, click here.

Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service