Pesticide
Definition - What does Pesticide mean?
A pesticide is a substance used on farms and vineyards to attract and then destroy any pest. Pesticides fall under the category of biocides, and in general, they are commonly used with the intention to protect plants from damaging influences; fungi, insects, etc.
In the wine industry, pesticides are utilized in the vineyard to ward off pests which damage vines and/or fruit. Fungicides are also utilized, especially after rains during the growing season which may cause rot and mold, thus damaging fruit and leading to heavy losses.
WineFrog explains Pesticide
in general terminology, pesticides are chemical and/or biological agents that have the ability to prevent the habitation of, discourage and/or kill pests. They are used to target anything from bacteria and harmful microbes to insects which have the potential to be harmful and lead to crop and/or vegetation loss.
In a broader spectrum, a pesticide can be any of the following: rodenticide, insecticide, nematicide, animal or insect repellent, fungicide, sanitizer, etc. While there are benefits to the use of pesticides, there are also drawbacks, as pesticides can be harmful to animals and humans.
The Food and Agriculture Organization defines a pesticide as any such chemical or substance or a mix of those which are utilized to prevent, destroy or control any form of pest. The term 'pest' encompasses insects, animal or human disease and undesired animals or plants.
