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Pests in Gardens and Landscapes: Quick Tips

Always read the pesticide label before purchase and use.

Don't pour pesticides down storm drains.

Wear personal protective equipment when using pesticides.

Pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) are designed to be toxic to the pests they target. When used properly, pesticides can protect your plants or home from damage. However, when the label instructions aren’t followed correctly, plant injury may occur, pests may not be controlled, human health could be impaired, and soil, air, or water could be polluted. Fertilizer products can also have negative environmental impacts when they get into waterways.

How can you use garden chemicals more safely?

• Use pesticides only when nonchemical methods are ineffective, and pest levels are intolerable.
• Select the least toxic, yet effective products that target your pest. Examples include bait stations, insecticidal soaps and oils, and microbial insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
• Buy ready-to-use products when possible so you don’t have to measure and mix them.
• Don’t water after applying garden chemicals unless the label tells you to. Never let pesticide or fertilizer run off into storm drains.
• Avoid applying chemicals outdoors when rain is forecast or when it is windy.
• Don’t apply pesticides or fertilizers on paved surfaces.

Be careful when using and storing garden chemicals.

• When mixing, applying, or cleaning up, always wear shoes, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, eye protection, and chemical-resistant gloves.
• Properly measure concentrated formulations of pesticides. Keep all measuring tools for the garden separate from those used for food.
• Never apply more product than the amount specified on the label.
• Always keep chemicals in their original container and store them tightly capped in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children and pets.

For help in an emergency, call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222. Visit calpoison.org for more information.

How to dispose of pesticides and fertilizers:

• If you can’t use all your pesticides and fertilizers, consider giving them away.
• Sewage treatment plants aren’t designed to remove all toxic chemicals from wastewater. Pouring garden chemicals down the sink or into the toilet pollutes water and is against the law!
• Storm drains and gutters carry water and pollutants like garden chemicals straight into our rivers, reservoirs, and oceans.
• Dispose of used garden chemicals by taking them to a household hazardous waste site.

For the Household Hazardous Waste Disposal site nearest you, call 1-800-CLEANUP (1-800-253-2687) or visit www.earth911.com for more information.

Minimize the use of pesticides that pollute our waterways. Use nonchemical alternatives or less toxic pesticide products whenever possible. Read product labels carefully and follow instructions on proper use, storage, and disposal.