Granules are usually applied as a solid and are nearly always used to treat soil and release the active ingredient slowly. Which statement best describes granules?

• A. Granules are usually applied as a solid and are nearly always used to treat soil and release the active ingredient slowly.
• B. Granules are liquid formulations designed for fast leaf uptake.
• C. Granules are the same as emulsifiable concentrates.
• D. Granules are used only for aquatic pests.

Answer: (A)

Granules are solid pesticide formulations designed for soil treatment and slow release of the active ingredient. They are made by incorporating or coating the active ingredient onto inert granule carriers, which lets the chemical be distributed evenly in the soil and release gradually as moisture interacts with the granules. This slow-release action provides longer-lasting protection with less frequent reapplication, and helps keep the active ingredient near the root zone where pests are most likely to encounter it. They’re not liquids intended for rapid leaf uptake, which would be sprayed and absorbed quickly through foliage. They’re also not the same as emulsifiable concentrates, which are liquid concentrates that must be mixed with water to form a sprayable emulsion. And granules aren’t limited to aquatic pests; they’re used for soil pests and other terrestrial applications as well.