Go natural! Beautiful lawns and gardens are possible without pesticides
The use of pesticides merely to improve the appearance of lawns, gardens, parks and school yards is an unnecessary risk to children, pets and our water supply, especially when there are so many alternatives for managing weeds and other pest problems.
Here's how to have pesticide-free lawns and gardens without risk to our children and the environment.
"I sincerely applaud the Ontario government's decision to protect the health and safety of the people, and particularly the children, of this province through this ban on cosmetic pesticides.
After more than thirty years promoting environmentally-responsible approaches to horticulture, I know that anyone can garden successfully and maintain a lawn quite effectively by using good, simple horticultural practices and a few common, harmless household products like soap and water without any need to resort to these harmful pesticides and poisons. This is great news for all Ontarians!"
Ed Lawrence, author, retired head gardener to seven Canadian Governors General and Prime Ministers, gardening guru for CBC Radio's Ontario Today
- Healthy lawns: Keep your lawn healthy using good maintenance practices
- Renovate your lawn: Repair and improve your existing lawn
- Green gardening: Environmentally friendly alternatives to chemicals
Learn more at local garden workshops
Many municipalities hold workshops to encourage their residents to take a natural approach to gardening. Call you town hall or look on line to see what they offer.
Master Gardeners of Ontario, an organization dedicated to providing horticultural information to the public, holds garden clinics and workshops around the province. Master gardeners are often available to answer questions by telephone. Visit their web site at www.mastergardener.ca for more information.
Leftover pesticides should never be put in the garbage or down the drain. They can poison drinking water supplies and the aquatic life in our lakes and rivers. Dispose of leftover chemicals by taking them to household hazardous waste depots in your area. Most municipalities hold events each year where residents can dispose of household hazardous products at no charge. Some municipalities may have special depots that are open year-round.
For more help and advice, visit these web sites. They are packed with useful tips on pesticide-free gardening.
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Last modified: August 27 2008.