What is one way to identify whether a pesticide is herbicidal or insecticidal?

One definitive way to determine whether a pesticide is herbicidal or insecticidal is by reading the label for specific pest targets. Pesticide labels provide critical information about the intended use of the product, including the types of pests that the pesticide is formulated to control. For example, a herbicide will list specific plant species it is designed to manage, while an insecticide will specify certain insects. This information is crucial for ensuring that the pesticide is applied effectively and safely, as using the wrong type of pesticide can lead to ineffective control and potential harm to non-target organisms.

The other approaches delved into in this question do not provide reliable means of identification. Smelling the pesticide is not a safe or effective method for determining its classification, as it can expose the applicator to harmful chemicals. Observing color changes on application might not yield consistent or clear indicators for identification. Similarly, comparing prices of different products will not reflect the type of pesticide or its effectiveness against specific pests; rather, price variation usually reflects formulation differences, brand, or packaging rather than functionality. Therefore, consulting the label for information on pest targets stands out as the most valid and responsible method.