Organic Pesticides

Introducing insect predators and parasites that will eliminate pests is biological pest control. Traps, barriers and hand picking pests off plants are physical controls.

And using organically acceptable and naturally occurring plant products that kill pests are the final step in controlling infestations in the garden.

Although they are organic, these pesticides can still have toxic side effects and should be used with caution.

Organic Pesticide Safety

Although organic compounds are safer than synthetic chemicals, you should still follow certain safety precautions when using them.

Always keep them in their original, marked containers. If you are mixing them in another container, mark the container according to its original packaging.

Generally, "danger" means the product is extremely toxic, "warning" means it is very toxic, and "caution" means it is mildly toxic. Keep these products safely stored where children cannot gain access to them.

Use care in measuring and applying, always using gloves to protect your hands and long sleeves and pant legs to prevent accidental spillage on your skin.

A face mask and goggles may also be warranted. Use measuring and application equipment that is reserved for this purpose.

Once application is complete, wash all clothing, skin and containers separately and let the treated area settle.

Read all package instructions carefully for when to apply and how long to wait before going into the area.

Common Organic Insecticides and How They Work

Microbial insecticides work by using common bacteria, fungi and viruses to make insects sick and die.

These products have the least harmful side effects to humans, pets and beneficial insects.

BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) is a bacteria that produces crystals and spores that paralyze the digestive tract of pests, causing them to starve.

There are several varieties available for specific pests. This can adversely affect butterfly larvae, and cause skin irritation in humans.

Neem oil is derived from the seed of the neem tree. It affects hormonal systems, preventing the pest from developing to mature stage. It has little negative effect on beneficial insects and has low toxicity to humans.

Pyrethrins are derived from the chrysanthemum daisy. They attack the central nervous system of any insects and cause death quickly.

It should be used with caution as it is detrimental to both pests and beneficial insects in the garden.

Diatomaceous earth is a nontoxic product derived from fossilized shells. It is ground into a fine powder which has microscopic sharp edges that cut into soft-bodied insects, causing dehydration and death.

Insecticidal soap is made of fatty acids that paralyze pests on contact, causing them to starve. These soaps can damage plants that have been stressed by drought or heat.

Although they are considered organic and environmentally friendly, it is obvious that these organic pesticides can have detrimental effects on beneficial insects as well as other wildlife and humans.

They should only be used when cultural, biological and physical controls have not been successful, only as often as necessary and with care.

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