Pest control

Reciprocal license agreement

I have a commercial applicators license, section 3A and B for the state of Kansas. However, I have moved back to Missouri and wish to keep my license current. Does the license transfer between state lines? If so, who would I contact for the re-certification classes?

Although we have reciprocal agreements with Kansas for ornamental and turf, 3A and B, you need to be licensed in Missouri if you live in Missouri. Check the Missouri Department of Agriculture's Web site for licensing requirements information.

Steven D. Kirk
Extension Associate
Pesticide Applicator Training

Weevils against musk thistles

In IPM1010, Biological and Integrated Control of Musk Thistle in Missouri it says the musk thistle rosette weevil and the musk thistle flower head weevil are natural enemies of musk thistles. Are these weevils available for purchase?

The two musk thistle weevils are not available for purchase. They are found throughout Missouri and other states and are probably on your property already.

Ben Puttler
Division of Plant Sciences

Small, green bugs on peas

I planted peas in my raised garden bed. Within days of picking my first pods, I noticed that some of the leaves are covered with small, green bugs. I almost didn't notice them as they are almost exactly the same color as the foliage.

I dusted the row with insecticide. The bag did not say anything about peas. My questions are:

What are the pests?
Will insecticide do the job? If not, what do I use?
Can I eat the peas now that I have dusted them? Is there a waiting period?

I suggest submitting a sample to the MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic for diagnosis and management information. You can find out more about how to submit a sample, services, and fees at our Web site. However, from your description, it sounds like one possibility for the problem is aphids. More information on aphids and control measures in the home garden can be found in G7274, Aphids, Scales, and Mites on Garden and Landscape Plants. If the problem is aphids, a spray formulation of Sevin may work better than the dust for control. The insecticide label will usually tell you how soon you can harvest after application.

Simeon Wright
Plant Diagnostic Clinic Coordinator

Pesticide training and licensing

Where, when and how does one find out about classes for gaining a commercial license in pest control? I am interested in entering this profession.

The Integrated Pest Management Web site has a wealth of information pertaining to pesticide training and licensing. Training dates are in January and February.

Steven D. Kirk
Extension Associate
Pesticide Applicator Training

Applying fertilizer and pesticide for customers

I have a lawn care company and want to be sure I comply with the law. I read I don't need a license to apply fertilizer. I interpret that as anything that feeds the lawn and doesn't prevent something in the lawn. So is it fair to say anything that prevents weeds and bugs requires a license to apply?

You are right, only fertilizers that contain no pesticides can be applied for-hire without a commercial pesticide license. You can apply any brand-name product if it is straight fertilizer, as long as the label specifies it is pesticide free, not a weed-and-feed product.

Steven D. Kirk
Extension Associate
Pesticide Applicator Training