Understanding formulations
A pesticide or fertilizer label gives the active ingredient and a short code, such as SC or WG. The code describes how the product is made and how it behaves in water and in the field. Knowing the code helps you pick the right product and mix it correctly.
Common codes
| Code | Full name | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| EC | Emulsifiable concentrate | Liquid that forms a milky emulsion in water. Shake the tank well during spraying. |
| SC | Suspension concentrate | Fine solid particles suspended in liquid. Shake before use, as particles settle. |
| WP | Wettable powder | Powder mixed into water. Keep stirring so it does not settle in the tank. |
| WG / WDG | Water-dispersible granules | Granules that break up in water. Less dust than WP, which makes handling easier. |
| SL | Soluble liquid | Dissolves fully in water. Generally the most consistent spray mix. |
| SG | Soluble granules | Granules that dissolve fully in water. |
| GR | Granules | Applied dry to soil or into the leaf whorl, not sprayed. |
| SE | Suspo-emulsion | Combines solid particles and an emulsion in one product. |
| FS | Flowable seed treatment | Liquid applied to seed before sowing. Do not use it as a foliar spray unless the label says so. |
Why the % matters
The percentage is the amount of active ingredient in the formulation. Two products with the same active ingredient but different percentages are not interchangeable. Always use the rate on the label for the percentage you bought.
Mixed products
Labels such as "Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC" mean the product contains two active ingredients. The combination can work against more diseases or pests, and it helps slow resistance when the two ingredients work in different ways.