Pesticide sales to reach $1.7 billion

U.S. demand for home and garden pesticides is projected to increase 4.8 percent per year to $1.7 billion in 2011, according to market research company Freedonia Group. More convenient packaging, new safety features and different formulations will help spur sales of these products.

Insecticides are the largest category on the market, accounting for almost 60 percent of overall demand in 2006. Herbicides are expected to register somewhat slower growth due to continued reliance on established products.

Fungicides and other products account for a relatively small share of overall demand, but are expected to post faster-than-average gains due to proliferation of specialized repellents and more sophisticated products addressing lawn diseases.

Household pesticides are projected to register faster growth than products for lawn and garden applications. This is partially attributed to resurgence in the insect repellent market. This segment has experienced a boost due to consumer concerns regarding West Nile virus and other insect-borne pathogens.

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For more: Freedonia Group, (440) 684-9600; www.freedoniagroup.com.

April 2008