Often
we react to seeing weeds or pests by immediately applying chemicals,
or even apply chemicals as prevention.
Exposure
to pesticides has been linked to a long list of diseases and
health problems: Parkinson’s, infertility, cancer, birth
defects, encephalitis, and lymphoma, just to name a few. Another
problem is that the law does not require companies to test lawn
pesticides with the same standards as pesticides used on commercially-grown
food. Many of these contact hidden "inert ingredients"
that have never been tested for possible harm. The Center
for Disease Control has documented cases of farmworker
illness after exposure to pesticides.
In addition
to the harm they can do to us humans, pesticides contaminate
the air, water, soil, plants, and animals around us. For example,
many studies have proven that pesticides harm honeybees, butterflies,
ladybugs (which eat lots of other pests), and fish, and that
lawn chemicals seep into the water table.
Besides
that, they can be expensive!
Learning
to combat pests without chemicals is a great way to help your
health and that of your neighbors and the environment.
An important
thing to consider is that healthy organic soil is an easy way
to reduce pests in the first place. Plants tend to thrive in
an organically rich environment, which helps them fight off
pests on their own. If you don't already have one or more compost
bins for composting at home, get one. It also wouldn't hurt
to have a compost
pail to keep near the kitchen sink to collect vegetable
scraps conveniently.
Orange
Guard is a non-toxic organically approved bug killer. The
active ingredient d-Limonene (orange peel extract) destroys
the wax coating of the insect's respiratory system. When applied
directly, the insect suffocates.
This organic
insect killer and repellent for your lawn and garden that
attaches to a water hose for easy application. It kills and
repels bugs.
An organic, non-toxic killer for the natural
control of Japanese Beetle grubs.
Links
to more information about pesticides and what you can do to
avoid them.
Beyond
Pesticides - Fact sheets about specific chemicals
and what to do in a pesticide emergency. “Least Toxic”
solutions for common household and garden pests.
Northwest
Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides - News on
pesticide-related issues and healthy solutions to pest problems.
Pesticide
Action Network Pesticide Database - A database of
pesticide toxicity and regulatory information. Reference section
provides general information about pesticides and their health
effects.
Food
News - Offers a downloadable wallet card to help
you choose produce that lowers your exposure.
Environmental
News Network article about pesticides
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2004 Clean Air Gardening. All Rights Reserved. www.cleanairmowing.com
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