Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide (Model 31225) - Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide is a highly effective solution designed for the control of a wide range of outdoor ornamental insect pests. This product offers quick knockdown and lasting residual control, protecting plants for 4 to 6 weeks. Its unique formulation allows it to work on contact, systemically, and through translaminar activity, ensuring comprehensive pest management.

Image: A 32 oz. Quart bottle of Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide, featuring a white label with red and black text, indicating its use for indoor/outdoor insect control.

2. Safety Information

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS.

• The EPA has classified Tristar 8.5% SL as a reduced risk insecticide, providing for greater worker safety.
• Observe a 12-hour re-entry interval for greenhouses and nurseries.
• Re-entry into commercial or residential areas is permitted when the application has dried.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during mixing and application, including gloves, eye protection, and long-sleeved clothing.
• Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing.
• Do not apply directly to water, or to areas where surface water is present, or to intertidal areas below the mean high water mark.
• Dispose of product and container in accordance with local regulations.

3. Product Features

• Quick Knockdown and Lasting Residual Control: Provides effective pest control for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Multiple Modes of Action: Works on contact, systemically, and through translaminar activity for comprehensive insect control.
• Broad-Spectrum Control: Controls a wide variety of insects including aphids, leaf-eating beetles (Japanese beetle), caterpillars, leaf miners, soft and hard scales, mealy bugs, whiteflies, and thrips.
• Reduced Risk Classification: EPA-classified as a reduced risk insecticide, enhancing worker safety.
• Easy to Mix and Measure: Designed for convenient small volume applications.
• Compatible: Works well with many commonly used surfactants, miticides, and fungicides.
• Stable in Sunlight: Maintains effectiveness even when exposed to sunlight.

4. Setup: Using the Tip-N-Measure Bottle

The Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide comes in a convenient Tip-N-Measure bottle, designed for easy and accurate measurement without the need for additional tools.

1. Fill Measuring Chamber: Slowly tip the bottle forward until the liquid fills the measuring chamber on the side of the bottle.
2. Identify Desired Rate: The measuring chamber has markings for fluid ounces. Identify the line corresponding to your desired application rate (e.g., 1 oz, 2 oz).
3. Adjust Liquid Level: Slowly tip the bottle back until the liquid level in the chamber is equal with the desired angled line. This ensures precise measurement.
4. Pour into Sprayer: Once the appropriate rate is measured, unscrew the cap of the measuring chamber and pour the measured liquid directly into your sprayer.

This method eliminates the need for syringes or other measuring devices, making preparation simple and mess-free.

5. Operating Instructions

After accurately measuring the required amount using the Tip-N-Measure bottle, dilute the insecticide with water in your sprayer according to the product label's instructions for your specific application needs. Ensure thorough mixing.

Application Areas:

• Annual and perennial flowering plants
• Ornamental plants
• Shrubs
• Commercial and industrial buildings
• Lawns, ornamental parks
• Recreational areas and athletic fields

Target Pests:

Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide is effective against a broad range of pests, including but not limited to:

• Aphids
• Leaf-eating beetles (e.g., Japanese beetle)
• Caterpillars
• Leaf miners
• Scales (soft and hard)
• Mealy bugs
• Whiteflies
• Thrips

Apply the diluted solution evenly to the foliage of plants, ensuring complete coverage. For best results, apply when pests are first observed or when conditions favor pest development. Reapply as necessary, adhering to the re-entry intervals and maximum application rates specified on the product label.

6. Maintenance

• Storage: Store the product in its original container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, food, or feed. Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
• Sprayer Cleaning: After each use, thoroughly rinse your sprayer with clean water. Dispose of rinse water in an approved manner, not near water sources or drains.
• Shelf Life: Refer to the product label for specific shelf life information.

7. Troubleshooting

If pest control is not satisfactory after application, consider the following:

• Application Rate: Verify that the correct application rate was used according to the product label for the target pest and area.
• Coverage: Ensure thorough and even coverage of the treated area, especially the undersides of leaves where pests may hide.
• Environmental Conditions: Extreme weather conditions (e.g., heavy rain shortly after application) can reduce effectiveness. Reapply if necessary after conditions improve and re-entry intervals are observed.
• Pest Identification: Confirm that the target pest is listed on the product label. If not, a different product may be required.
• Resistance: In rare cases, pests may develop resistance. Consider rotating with insecticides from different chemical classes if resistance is suspected.

For persistent issues, consult with a local agricultural extension office or a pest management professional.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty details for the Tristar 8.5% SL Insecticide are not provided in this manual. For comprehensive warranty information, product support, or to contact the manufacturer, please refer to the product label or visit the official NuFarm website. Always retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.