Use Organic Pesticides and Fungicides Safely in a Natural Garden

Organic gardeners use natural garden products to avoid chemical exposure. Follow these guidelines to increase the safety and efficacy of organic sprays.

Gardeners new to the use of organic pesticides and fungicides in the garden can experience disappointment from the improper use of products, which they incorrectly attribute to the product’s natural origins. When used at the right time and for the right pest, organic garden controls meet or exceed the efficacy of chemical controls.

Use the Right Organic Spray for the Problem
Gardeners must identify the target pest or disease before applying an organic spray or dust. Using an insecticide to treat damage caused by mildews or rust wastes the gardener’s time and money. Organic gardeners should start with the least toxic method first, such as handpicking or cultural controls, and engage the help of a county extension agent to identify any unknown pest or disease.

Read the Garden Product Label
The label on organic pesticides and herbicides tells the gardener how much of a particular product to use. One can’t assume that a product labeled “insect soap” is the same from one brand to another, as one product may be concentrated and require dilution with water, while another may be applied directly to the garden.

Labels tell the gardener how to dispose of a product properly. For example, even if a garden spray is certified organic, disposing of excess product by dumping it into a storm drain can poison aquatic life. The gardener should also refer to the label to learn how to store the product and how often it’s safe to reapply the product.

Keep Organic Pesticides Off of Flowers
Most gardeners are aware of the problem of colony collapse among honeybees, but not even using organic garden sprays exclusively in the garden is enough to protect the beleaguered bee. Many organic pesticides harm the bees and butterflies gardeners welcome to their gardens, further stressing populations and denying the gardener the benefits these pollinators provide. Gardeners who must treat a serious pest infestation with sprays when flowers are present should do so in the late evening, when bees and butterflies are inactive.

Apply Organic Pest Control Judiciously
In a gardener’s haste to outwit tough garden pests he may be tempted to apply insecticides before the problem surfaces. However, what feels like a proactive measure can actually increase the prevalence of insects or diseases that are resistant to all but the harshest pesticides and fungicides. It’s better to conduct a brief patrol of the garden each day, and nip infestations in the bud as they occur.

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Protect Skin and Lungs from Pesticides and Herbicides
Garden products approved for organic use can still cause rashes or lung irritation. Gardeners must not apply organic sprays or dusts on windy days, and they should protect their skin with gloves, long sleeves, and pants as necessary. Vented gardening goggles protect the eyes from particle irritants without fogging over. Those with allergies and asthmatics may consider a face mask or particulate respirator to protect the lungs.