agrochemical

An agrochemical is a chemical product used in agriculture to protect crops from pests and diseases, regulate growth, or improve nutrient availability. The term encompasses pesticides, fertilizers, plant growth regulators, and related adjuvants. Agrochemicals are typically formulated for specific application methods and are sold as concentrates or ready-to-use products.

Major categories include pesticides, such as insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and nematicides; fertilizers that supply essential nutrients; plant growth regulators that modify plant development; and adjuvants that enhance the performance of formulations. Some products combine multiple functions, such as a fungicide with a fertilizing effect.

Use aims to protect yields, reduce crop losses, and improve quality. Applications may be carried out via spraying, seed treatment, soil incorporation, or controlled-release formulations. The adoption of integrated pest management and precision agriculture has influenced the use and timing of agrochemicals to optimize efficacy while reducing environmental impact.

Regulation of agrochemicals varies by country but generally requires safety testing, registration, labeling with usage instructions and resistance management requirements, and withdrawal times. Environmental and human health concerns—such as non-target effects, groundwater contamination, and resistance—drive ongoing research and policy reforms, including stricter residue limits and data transparency.

Global markets are dominated by a few multinational manufacturers, with ongoing innovation toward more selective, lower-toxicity products and alternatives such as biopesticides. The term and its usage reflect ongoing balance between agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship.