The increased awareness of pesticide/chemical use in residential areas has created a lot of interest in natural products that are alternatives to herbicides and pesticides. Although consumers are interested in environmentally friendly lawn care many still believe that natural and organic solutions are costly and not very effective. In fact, organic fertilizers can be sourced economically and natural pest controls such as nematodes have been found to be very aggressive at attacking pests like grubs.
The use and misuse of traditional fertilizers has led to burning and overfeeding of lawns, reduced biological activity in the soil, and contamination of the water supply. Pesticides are commonly overapplied or applied at the wrong time of the year. Through mishandling and carelessness many people have been inadvertently exposed to pesticides. Many homeowners have noticed their lawn is tired looking. These gardeners report that pests are becoming resistant to pesticides and the lawn does not respond to repeated use of chemical fertilizers. The reason for this is simple, the soil has been depleted of beneficial fungi and bacteria, pesticides have killed off many of the beneficial soil organisms that cycle the soil and make organic fertilizers available to plants and turf. The key to healthy lawn is healthy soil that can provide slow release food for your lawn and garden. Most yard care experts will agree
growing a thick, healthy lawn is the best way to prevent pest and weed problems.
Working with nature will restore a balance in your turf where beneficial insects and organisms work with the bad bugs, and the soil will aid the grass and plants in fighting off diseases and stress. This balance will not develop overnight, there will be a transition period where the chemical/pesticide dependent lawn adapts to the natural approach to gardening. Homeowners' expectations must also change for environmentally friendly lawn care to be embraced. The idea of the picture perfect lawn without any weeds is long gone. A more natural lawn that attract birds and butterflies with the odd weed can be attractive. Native grasses and plants will contribute to less work and provide a unique, exotic look for your turf. Planting crocuses, and yarrow ( a spongy herb) will naturally enhance your property.
Organic fertilizers feed and condition the soil in turn feeding the roots slowly and consistently. The biological activity stimulated by organic matter will further increase the cycle of the soil by encouraging beneficial fungi and bacteria. Using organic plant food can be as simple as using composted materials from the home and garden or you can purchase organic fertilizers that have the NPK ratio desired for the species of plant or the time of year. For example a fertilizer higher in N (nitrogen) is beneficial early in the season whereas a high K(potassium) is desired in the fall. Ensure that the fertilizer used has high organic content. Some fertilizers are advertised as organic based with as little as 15% organic content. There are also premium organic fertilizers for the lawn and garden that contain trace elements and soil conditioners that aid in the breakdown of organic matter into usable plant nourishment.
An organic fertilizer with several ingredients will aid in soil conditioning and biological activity and reduce nutritional imbalances. Organic fertilizers also do not contain petroleum, chemical fertilizers often are petroleum based thereby contributing to the release of greenhouse gases. Due to the slow release nature of organic fertilizers most of the fertilizer is utilized and contributes to the development of beneficial soil organisms whereas chemical fertilizers can bind with other minerals in the soil, evaporate into the atmosphere or be washed into the water supply, ponds and lakes.
Controlling weeds is best attained through prevention by overseeding, mowing high and keeping the lawn’s pH in check.
Certain weeds such as dandelions prefer a pH level about 7.5, grass about 6.5. Garden sulphur drops the pH level and lime will raise the pH level, both are natural. Hard work and persistency is still the best remedy for controlling weeds.
Water conservation is another important consideration for the homeowner. It is best to water deeply and infrequently. This will force the grass roots to go deep into the soil, deeper than most weed roots. Shallow, infrequent waterings encourage thatch and encourage the development of young weeds. Water late in the day, or early in the morning will lead to less evaporation. For patio plants and container gardening, moisture crystal is an excellent method for preserving moisture at the root level this leads to using less water and less frequently. Moisture crystals are non-toxic, like miniature sponges or water bottles that can hold up to 300 times it’s weight in water, great for those dry hanging baskets.
Attacking garden pests in your turf and lawn can be easy if consistency is applied. Pests that have a larvae cycle in the soil can often be combated with beneficial nematodes. Nematodes are microscopic worms that migrate through damp soil. Beneficial nematodes carry a compound that is only toxic to the grub. Nematodes are best used in the spring once the soil temperature has reached 13 degrees Celsius. They are easy to apply and safe to use , all that is needed is a fertilizer sprayer applicator and water.
Other pests controlled by nematodes are iris borers, fruit flies, squash bugs, webworms and many more!
For control of plant and garden pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites, consider using natural sprays such as insecticidal soap and botanical extracts, such as neem and pine oil.
These natural remedies are available in concentrates and aid in preventing insect infestations by preventing the insects to mature and breed in a variety of ways that are non toxic to the plant, soil earthworms, or people.
There are a number of alternatives to chemicals and pesticides that can nourish your lawn and help prevent weed and pest problems in and economic and effective fashion. Today’s consumer is more educated, aware and savvy of environmental concerns and has increased their interest towards the reduction of pesticides and chemicals for cosmetic purposes.
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