After completing spraying, which action is recommended?

• A. Leave the sprayer as is for next use.
• B. Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the sprayer before switching to another pest.
• C. Pour leftover spray into the landscape.
• D. Dispose of the spray without rinsing.

Answer: (B)

Thoroughly cleaning the inside and outside of the sprayer before switching to another pest is recommended because pesticides can leave residues that contaminate future applications. Cleaning removes these residues from tanks, hoses, nozzles, and screens, preventing cross-contamination between products or pests, which helps protect crops, the environment, and applicator safety. It also helps prevent nozzle clogs and ensures the next spray delivers the correct label rate.

Leaving the sprayer as-is risks transferring residues to the next target, while pouring leftover spray onto the landscape or disposing of spray without rinsing can harm non-target plants, water sources, and soil. Proper cleaning between uses is the best practice.