How do granular pesticides typically compare in terms of environmental risk?

Granular pesticides generally present less risk compared to liquid formulations primarily due to their application method and formulation characteristics. Granular products are typically designed to be less soluble in water, which reduces the likelihood of runoff into water bodies during rainfall or irrigation. This decreased solubility means that they remain in the soil for longer periods, allowing for targeted application directly to the area where pests are present.

Furthermore, the risk of drift is significantly lower with granular pesticides since they are often applied directly onto the ground. Liquid formulations, on the other hand, can easily be transported by wind or water, leading to potential contamination of non-target areas and organisms. As a result, granular pesticides are considered to have a reduced environmental impact, making them a safer choice in many scenarios, particularly in sensitive ecological areas.