Safeners are provided which reduce the toxicity of biocide-containing pesticide formulations on microbial inoculants. The safeners of the invention comprise a sulfite, such as sodium bisulfite and/or a hydrazine. The safeners of the invention optionally further comprise an amine, such as N,N-dimethylamine. Pesticidal formulations comprising a pesticide, a biocide and a safener of the invention are also provided. Methods of using the safeners and pesticidal formulations of the invention to treat plants are further provided.
