Which method is NOT recommended for reducing surface runoff of pesticides?

The method of spraying pesticides before expected rain is not recommended for reducing surface runoff. When pesticides are applied shortly before a rainfall event, there is a significant risk that the rain will wash the chemicals away from the target area. This runoff not only reduces the effectiveness of the pesticide application but also poses a risk of contaminating local waterways and ecosystems.

In contrast, applying conservative tillage practices helps maintain soil structure and reduces erosion, thereby minimizing runoff. Using adjuvants to enhance adherence can improve the sticking power of pesticides to the plants, reducing the likelihood of them being washed away. Avoiding application on very sloped land is also a practice aimed at minimizing runoff; steeper slopes increase the speed of water runoff and thus increase the potential for pesticide loss. Each of these practices are conducive to environmental protection and effective pest management, while spraying before rain undermines these efforts.