Pesticides

Consider using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach.  IPM is a decision-making process that uses cultural, biological, and chemical practices to manage pests in a way that minimizes risk to humans and the environment.  If you use a pest control company, ask if they offer an IPM program.   http://www.floridagardener.com/misc/ipm.htm

Don’t over-water and over-fertilize your lawn.   By over-watering and over-fertilizing your lawn, you may actually be harming the health of your grass and increasing the likelihood of insect, weed, thatch, fungal, and disease problems.  Efficient irrigation and fertilization and proper maintenance often can be your most inexpensive and effective method of pest and weed control.     

Know your enemy.   First, identify the bugs that are feasting on your lawn, so that you can select the appropriate pest control option. 

Select the least toxic pest control option available for that particular type of bug.  You may be able to use biological methods that utilize the natural enemies of insects to control pest problems (Ex. – mole cricket nematodes).  If you must use a pesticide, select the least toxic product that is available, such as insecticidal soaps, pyrethrins, horticultural oil, Bt, and Neem oil.  See a list of less-toxic alternative pesticide products below.  Some of these products may be available at your local lawn and garden center, as well.

Spot treat.  If you must use a pesticide, treat only the affected areas of your lawn.  This will save money, reduce the threat to beneficial insects, reduce the amount of harmful chemicals that can potentially enter our waterways, and limit our own health risks from exposure. 

Safer Brand Lawn and Garden Insect Killer (pyrethrins, potassium salts of fatty acids)
Claims to control chinch bugs.
>www.saferbrand.com

Safer Brand BioNeem Insecticide Concentrate (neem oil)
Claims to control chinch bugs and mole crickets.
>www.saferbrand.com

Safer Brand Insecticidal Soap Concentrate (potassium salts of fatty acids)
>www.saferbrand.com

Bioganic Lawn and Garden Spray (blend of natural oils)
>www.greenlightco.com

Cedarcide Yardsafe Insect Repellent Granules
>www.greenlightco.com

Liquid Rotenone/Pyrethrin, Mole Cricket Nematodes, Lawn-Gard Bioinsecticide
>www.gardensalive.com

 

Natural Pest Control Companies:

Nature’s Way Natural Pest Control, Inc.
www.natureswaypest.com
904-280-7563

NOTE:  All chemicals can potentially harm our waterways.  Please, use sparingly and with caution.  St. Johns Riverkeeper does not promote the use of lawn chemicals and does not endorse any specific lawn care products.

 

Mowing and Blowing

Selecting a Lawn Care Company