Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi !!!
I am doing a science fair project at my school. I was wondering if you could give me any advice. My question is : How will pesticides affect a native plant wether fo good or bad? Do you have any suggestions? I already have a pesticide and my plants and i know what i am going to do. Please reply ASAP because my project is due on febuary 23.

sincerly, Raenelson

A pesticide is a chemical that kills plants (depending on the dose) so the expected effect will be negative.

There are occasions when a very low dose of pesticide may stimulate growth (longer stems, bigger leaves, more flowers) rather than harm the plant.

Let us know the plant and pesticide so we can advise you.

Matthew W. Mulanax

Thanks for responding!!!!

I am using two different plants. They are both ireses. One is black and is called "Lord of the night" and the other is a purple iris called "Legends of the fall". I am using a pesticide i bought at home depot called "incecticidal soap". it is not supossed to harm the user and i think it's organic so i decided to use it. I have started a chart to record my data. in it i have been recording things like the weather, how many spays of pesticide on each plant, time, any differences and if i got my photos or not. Again thank you for responding.

sincerly,
Raenelson

Onething to look for is a difference in leaf shape or texture between the insecticidal soap sprayed plants and the untreated ones. Some soap formulations have a physiological effect, and the treated plants may look different than the treated ones. Measure plant height, as well as, leaf length and width to determine if there differences.

Good luck,

Matthew W. Mulanax

Thanks for the advice. i will. thanks for taking time to answer me!!!!

Sincerly,
Raenelson