Let's Take a Moment and THINK....

I know, I know, An Unexpected Garden pt.2 was to be my next blog, but can we talk?

In my neighborhood, I saw a man spraying his yard yesterday with Round-Up.  The labeled product was in the driveway next to a playing toddler.  A breeze was blowing and small foggy clouds of the herbicide were wafting across the lawn. He was dressed in shorts, tee shirt and flip-flops. Ugh!  Can I make a citizen’s arrest?  This was worse than just wrong. 

* Children and chemicals of any kind do not mix. Horticulture/agriculture chemicals are no exception. 

* Know about the pesticides you use and how they work.                                                                      

* Systemic herbicides are absorbed into plant (or human/pet) tissue.  Protective clothing, gloves and eye-wear keep the chemical away from skin.  Absorbed chemical contamination will not wash off.     

* Herbicides kill plants regardless of property lines; take care when applying pesticides near other people and their property. 

                                                                                                                           

* Wind and weather conditions should be considered and accounted for when applying chemicals especially when using a non-selective herbicide.

                                                                                       

* The label instructions were not read or followed.  

* Please do not mix chemicals stronger than listed on the label.   

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW ALL LABEL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE MIXING OR APPLYING ANY CHEMICALS.  

 

I know I seem to repeat the same things about pesticides. The truth is pesticides are getting safer each year but we need to educate ourselves on their use. Different strategies and environmental concerns push us to improve the way we grow our crops, deal with weeds or bugs and live our lives. Let’s get it right, if for nothing else ... 
                                                     ...our children.

Take a moment and think, (and read) the label before you spray.......