When is the best time to apply pesticides if pollinating bees are active?

The best time to apply pesticides when pollinating bees are active is during times when these insects are least likely to be foraging for food, specifically at night, early morning, or late evening. At these times, bees are typically less active, which significantly reduces the risk of pesticide exposure to them.

Applying pesticides during the day, especially during peak bee activity, can be detrimental to bee populations, as they are out foraging. Midday applications, particularly in sunny conditions, can also result in greater pesticide drift and volatility due to higher temperatures, potentially harming not only bees but also beneficial insects and the surrounding ecosystem. Therefore, ensuring that pesticide applications occur when bees are inactive is critical for their protection and maintaining pollination services.