How much influence does the pH of the water in the spray tank have upon insecticide or fungicide activity?
It is very important to know the pH level of the water used to mix insecticides or fungicides. Many pesticides breakdown rapidly in alkaline water. This decomposition is caused from a condition known as alkaline hydrolysis. Hydrolysis can be prevented by adjusting the pH of the spray solution prior to adding the pesticide. This can be done with buffers or acid forming soluble fertilizers.