Orthenex applied to Vegetables - Ask Extension
I mistakenly applied Ortho's Orthenex concentrate to several of my bean and tomato plants before discovering that it was NOT to be used on fruits or v...
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Orthenex applied to Vegetables #870625
Asked May 29, 2024, 4:15 PM EDT
I mistakenly applied Ortho's Orthenex concentrate to several of my bean and tomato plants before discovering that it was NOT to be used on fruits or vegetables. The contents are: Acephate .......4.00% Triforine .......3.25% Fenbutatin-oxide* ......... 0.75% .. I applied about two ounces in about 2 gallons of water in a watering can and poured over the plants and soil. The plants are relatively young, no fruit being on the plants yet. The tomatoes were a foot tall and the bean plants had about 5 or 6 leaves each. But the soil was drenched as well. If I throw out the plants, can I replant new ones in the same soil? Do I have to wait a certain amount of time for the chemicals to dissipate? Will the chemicals still get into the beans and tomatoes of a new plant if planted in the same soil? I am afraid I ruined much of my small garden and would appreciate knowing how dangerous these chemicals are. Will I be able to plant in that soil again even if next year? Any help would be appreciated!
Lucas County Ohio
Expert Response
Good afternoon and thank you for your question. Ortho Orthenex was pulled from the market back in 2011 due to acute toxicity. I would highly encourage you to get rid of all of the plants as well as the soil and start completely over. The acaricide active ingredient in this formulation has a half life of several years, so it will persist in the soil for at least another year. Please be sure to wear your personal protective equipment to prevent any potential exposure. This pesticide is also highly toxic to bees and other wildlife.
Here is the pesticide label for your reference. It will provide information on protecting yourself and how to dispose of this pesticide and contaminated items.
https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/<personal data hidden>4-19970224.pdf
Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thank you.
Here is the pesticide label for your reference. It will provide information on protecting yourself and how to dispose of this pesticide and contaminated items.
https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/ppls/<personal data hidden>4-19970224.pdf
Please let me know if you have any further questions. Thank you.