SUNYANI, Ghana — Agrochemical retailers in the Bono Region advise farmers to seek professional guidance before purchasing and applying agricultural chemicals. Improper use of herbicides and other agrochemicals can reduce crop yields, damage soils, and create health risks.
Retailers in Sunyani stated that responsible chemical sales require more than supplying products. They identified customer education as essential for protecting farmers and the environment. Retailers reported that they begin each sale by asking customers about the intended use of the agrochemical, including crop type, growth stage, and the specific weed or pest problem. If a customer’s intended use raises concerns or suggests potential misuse, retailers may decline the sale by stating the product is unavailable. Retailers view this practice as part of their responsibility to public safety.
Advising Farmers on the Right Chemical
Retailers noted that herbicides differ in their modes of action. Selecting the wrong product can have long-term effects on crops and soil health. There are different categories of weedicides, each intended for specific agricultural situations.One example discussed was Gramazone, which they described as a contact herbicide that primarily affects weeds above the soil surface and generally does not persist significantly in the soil after application.
They contrasted this with Atrazine, a soil-active herbicide that can remain active in the soil for several months under certain conditions. They cautioned that residual herbicides may affect sensitive crops planted afterward if farmers fail to consider crop rotation and label recommendations. Crops such as cassava and cocoyam may be at risk if planted in soils containing active residual herbicides. For this reason, they emphasized that farmers should always seek advice before selecting a product. Retailers recommend that farmers seek professional advice before selecting agrochemicals, rather than relying only on past experience or peer recommendations. A challenge they face is convincing some farmers to accept technical guidance.
Some customers arrive convinced they know which chemical they need and are unwilling to discuss application methods, safety, or alternatives. Retailers stated that they continue to provide information on proper usage, dosage, timing, and safety, even when customers are reluctant. Some farmers choose to ignore these recommendations. Retailers expressed concern that ignoring professional advice increases the risk of crop damage, environmental contamination, resource waste, and exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Safety Should Come Before Convenience
Retailers emphasized the importance of personal safety when handling agrochemicals. They recommend that farmers wear appropriate personal protective equipment before mixing or spraying chemicals. Recommended equipment includes: face mask or respirator.
- Chemical-resistant gloves.
- Protective overalls or coveralls.
- Recommended boots designed to reduce skin exposure.
Retailers advise farmers to eat before handling agricultural chemicals to reduce the risk of discomfort or adverse reactions. Eating, drinking, or smoking should not occur during mixing or application. Retailers urge farmers to read and follow all product label instructions, including mixing rates, application methods, waiting periods, and safety precautions.
Responsible Agrochemical Use Supports Sustainable Agriculture
Agrochemical retailers state that safe and informed chemical use benefits farmers, consumers, and the environment. View agrochemical sellers not merely as suppliers but as agricultural partners capable of providing valuable technical advice on selecting appropriate products, preventing crop injury, and improving weed management practices. Retailers concluded that seeking professional guidance helps farmers protect health, maintain soil quality, and improve productivity.
Editorial Note
This article reflects interviews conducted by Ghana Beacon with agrochemical retailers in Sunyani, Bono Region. The information shared represents the experiences and views of the interview participants. Farmers are encouraged to consult qualified agricultural extension officers and always follow the manufacturer’s label instructions, as herbicide performance, persistence, and crop safety depend on factors such as the specific product formulation, application rate, soil type, weather conditions, and intended crop.
By Ghana Beacon Editorial Team
July 8, 2026
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