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Costar is a selective insecticide that is used to control aphids, thrips, and other sucking insects in a variety of crops, including apples, peaches, nectarines, and grapes. It is a member of the neonicotinoid insecticide family and works by interfering with the insect's nervous system, which eventually leads to death.

How Costar works

Costar works by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the insect's nervous system. This prevents the normal transmission of nerve signals, which eventually leads to paralysis and death. Costar is selective for insects because it binds to a specific type of nAChR that is not found in mammals.

Benefits of using Costar

• Broad-spectrum control: Costar can control a wide range of sucking insects, including aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leafhoppers, and mealybugs.
• Effective on a variety of crops: Costar can be used on a wide variety of crops, including apples, peaches, nectarines, grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, and ornamentals.
• Relatively safe for use: Costar is relatively safe for use when applied according to label directions. It is not toxic to mammals, fish, or birds. However, it can be harmful to aquatic invertebrates if it is applied directly to water bodies.
• Available in a variety of formulations: Costar is available in a variety of formulations, including liquid concentrates, dry flowable granules, and water-dispersible granules. This makes it easy to find the formulation that is best suited for your needs.

Application rates

The application rate of Costar will vary depending on the crop, the insect pest, and the environmental conditions. However, the general application rate is as follows:

• Foliar spray: 0.015% to 0.040%
• Soil drench: 0.0125% to 0.050%
• Seed treatment: 0.030% to 0.050%

Precautions

When using Costar, it is important to follow the label directions carefully. This will help to ensure that you are using the insecticide safely and effectively. Here are some specific precautions to take:

• Wear protective clothing, including gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and pants, when handling Costar.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling Costar.
• Keep Costar out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not apply Costar directly to water bodies.
• Avoid spraying Costar on windy days.
• If you accidentally get Costar in your eyes, rinse them immediately with water for at least 15 minutes.
• If you accidentally get Costar on your skin, wash it immediately with soap and water.

Costar and the environment

Costar is a relatively safe insecticide when used according to label directions. However, it is important to use it carefully to avoid harming the environment. Here are some tips for minimizing the impact of Costar on the environment:

• Apply Costar only when necessary.
• Apply Costar in the early morning or late evening, when bees are less active.
• Avoid spraying Costar on windy days.
• Rinse any equipment that has been used to apply Costar with water before storing it.