Most lawn pesticides have been around for a long time, and currently there is a growing movement to ban their use completely. Generally, we would all feel better if there was a general reduction in their usage. Scientific research have proven that pesticides, if used properly, pose no unreasonable risk. There are alternatives on the horizon to using pesticides, however there will be situations where selective use of pesticides will still be required. Nutri-Lawn wishes to inform you on this issue, and to consider the consequences, before you take a side.

Pesticides come in many different forms, with different ‘toxic’ strengths, and for many different purposes. There are herbicides (least toxic) for broad leaf weed control, there are insecticides for insect control, and there are fungicides for fungus and disease control. All of these products which are currently on the market, have been extensively tested, and approved, by US and Canadian government authorities. The biggest user by far is the agricultural sector, accounting for 92% of pesticide usage.

Pesticides have added to our general quality of life. Aside from helping to create a beautiful environment, they control insects which attach crops, flowers, lawns, and trees. They keep weeds under control, which produce pollen and seeds. For people with allergies, control of weeds is a health concern. In the agricultural sector, they have significantly increased crop yields.

Any risk of using these products stems with improper usage and excessive exposure. Lawn care technicians are licensed to apply these products in the right formulation, under the right environmental conditions, and taking the personal precautions to minimize exposure.

Consumers and homeowners should carefully read labels before using the products. Products should be used only on a selective basis and in the right diluted mixture. They should store opened containers in a secure place, where they are not accessible to children or where they might be spilled by accident and enter any drainage systems. Dispose unused products and containers at your local fire hall or chemical drop off sites.

Lawns that are maintained properly through regular care (i.e. feeding, aeration, watering, and mowing), should not require regular blanket spraying of pesticides, but only ‘spot treating’ of limited problem areas. We strongly recommend that “weed and feed” products not be used, since they unnecessary blanket pesticides which are generally not required.

New products are being sought which will deal with weeds and insects. One is a corn gluten meal, which is a natural organic fertilizer, but has the ability to suppress seed germination. It is currently not registered as a weed control agent, however testing, over the last 10 years, has proven that it has pre-emergent weed and crabgrass control ability. There are other products which are being developed and tested. Many of them are non-selective between grass and weeds, and some of them are time consuming to use, and therefore not very efficient from a commercial standpoint.

Until new products become proven and registered, Nutri-Lawn feels that it is vital that we are able to retain the use of pesticides to maintain our gardens, trees, and lawns. The key is responsible usage, and knowledge of Integrated Pest Management practices.