It is very common to find a greenhouse at a high school these days, especially in rural communities. These greenhouses are often used as part of the agricultural program’s curriculum. Students gain experience growing and caring for plants as well as business management and communications skills while interacting with the public. 

The Mercer County Horticulture agent works closely with the two ag teachers in their community assisting with any issues the teachers may run into with their greenhouses. When meeting with one of the ag teachers about spray options for the greenhouse it was brought up that most ag teachers do not have experience with greenhouse pesticides. Pesticides that can be safely used in an outdoor setting can be extremely dangerous in an enclosed environment. After talking with the teachers who were expressing their concerns about greenhouse safety, the horticulture agent decided to offer a greenhouse pesticide safety class for teachers. 

The horticulture agent partnered with the pesticide safety coordinator for the state to offer a class on handling pesticides in the greenhouse. Ag teachers from Mercer and the surrounding counties attended the class. General pesticide safety information was shared from personal protective equipment, to how to handle spills, to re-entry times, keeping records about sprays, and how to properly apply chemicals. The teachers were also taught about common pest they would encounter in the greenhouse and how to manage them. 

Each teacher received a go-to quick guide to keep in their greenhouses. These guides had pictures of common insects they would encounter in the greenhouses. The guide also came with pesticide recommendations based on the pest, information on the active ingredient, the tradename, and re-entry time. They were also provided with a list of biological control options as well, as an alternative to sprays. 

At the end of the class each teacher received a certificate that they had completed this training. Each teacher was given a survey to provide feedback on this program. It was suggested this program be presented at the teacher’s annual summer training conference, to reach a greater audience. The ultimate goal is to be able to train all of the ag teachers to receive their private applicator license when dealing with a greenhouse and youth.