North Carolina Pesticide Application Practice Test

When is the best time to apply pesticides to protect bees?

1. During the heat of the day

2. At noon

3. In the evening or early morning

4. On rainy days

The correct answer is: In the evening or early morning

Applying pesticides in the evening or early morning is the best practice for protecting bees because these times typically coincide with lower bee activity. Bees are less active during cooler parts of the day, allowing for a safer application that minimizes exposure to these beneficial pollinators. During the evening and early morning, the temperature is generally lower, which also reduces the volatility of certain pesticides, decreasing the chance of drift to non-target areas. In contrast, applying pesticides during the heat of the day or at noon can expose bees to harmful chemicals since they are usually more active during these warmer hours. Bees are gathering nectar and pollen and could come into contact with the pesticides applied, increasing the risk of harm. Rainy days can also complicate applications, as rain can wash away pesticides, reducing their effectiveness and potentially harming the surrounding environment, but it does not directly address the concern of bee safety in the same way that strategic timing does.