What indicates a pesticide's effectiveness?

The number of applications required to achieve control is a key indicator of a pesticide's effectiveness. An effective pesticide typically requires fewer applications to manage a pest problem effectively. If a product successfully controls pests with minimal applications, it demonstrates both potency and efficiency, which are crucial metrics in pest management strategies.

In contrast, while the concentration of the active ingredient could also influence effectiveness, it is not a standalone indicator of how well a pesticide performs in practical applications. The cost of the product, although important for budgeting and financial considerations, does not directly reflect its effectiveness. Similarly, the manufacturer's reputation can provide some insight into product reliability, but it does not guarantee effectiveness in pest control. Therefore, the number of applications is a more direct measurement of how effectively a pesticide performs in real-world situations.