What are the chemicals in a pesticide that do the work called?

The chemicals in a pesticide that perform the intended action of controlling pests are referred to as active ingredients. These compounds are specifically designed to provide the biological activity needed to target and eliminate unwanted organisms, such as insects, weeds, or fungi. In formulations, the active ingredients are carefully selected based on their efficacy, mode of action, and safety profiles.

Active ingredients are often accompanied by inert ingredients, which do not specifically contribute to the pest control action but serve other purposes, such as enhancing the product's stability, improving its application, or facilitating its transfer to the target pest. Understanding the role of active ingredients is crucial for both effective pest management and safe application, as they are responsible for the primary effects of the pesticide.

Ensuring the correct identification and understanding of active ingredients allows horticulturists and pesticide applicators to make informed decisions on which products to use based on their specific pest issues and environmental considerations.