While chemical fertilizers and pesticides are common practices for achieving lush lawns and pest-free gardens, their long-term impacts can be undesirable. Salt Lake City sustainability information indicates that chemical pesticide use and exposure have been linked to negative health effects in humans, particularly children.
Recent studies suggest that most homes in the United States contain pesticide contamination. Reported health effects from such exposure include asthma, brain tumors, acute poisoning, childhood cancer, and birth defects.
To maintain yards without chemicals, several maintenance tips are recommended to improve soil health and reduce weed growth. These practices include aerating lawns to prevent compaction, mowing grass to a height of 3-4 inches, and incorporating native plants into the landscape.
Natural fertilization can be achieved by mulching with leaves and leaving grass clippings on the lawn. Additionally, homeowners can discourage pests by decluttering yards and homes, removing standing water, and avoiding open food sources. To prevent overwatering, it is advised to avoid watering during the heat of the day.
For those concerned about pesticide residue on produce, purchasing organic or sustainably farmed produce from local farmers markets are recommended options. If these are not feasible, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables can help reduce ingested residue. High-priority items for organic purchasing include strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, peaches, pears, cherries, grapes, celery, tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and potatoes.
Natural alternatives exist for managing pests without harming the ecosystem. Diatomaceous earth can be used to affect crawling insects like slugs and snails, while neem oil can disrupt the life cycles of various insect stages without harming bees, butterflies, or ladybugs.
Oils such as peppermint, thyme, and rosemary can act as repellents for many insects including mosquitoes, ants, spiders, and ticks. Homemade insecticidal soaps and peppermint or tea tree oil Castile soap sprays are also effective against common garden pests and wasp or hornet nests.
For weed control, vinegar and hot water serve as alternative herbicides. Vinegar mixed with a few drops of liquid soap can be sprayed on weeds during dry, sunny days. Adding salt to the mixture may prevent regrowth in areas like sidewalk cracks where future plant growth is not desired.
