A decade ago, City of Hamilton parks and cemeteries were blanket sprayed with herbicides twice yearly for control of broadleaf weeds. By 1999 blanket applications were made only to select sports fields, cemeteries and high profile parks. Historical data for outlying municipalities is unavailable.
By comparison, in 2001, 389 acres received herbicide treatment. Herbicide sprays applied were primarily combinations of the selective herbicides, 2,4-D, Dicamba and Mecoprop. A non-selective herbicide, Round-up (active ingredient glyphosate) is also used to mark infield boundary lines in designated sports fields, and for eradication of poison ivy or weed growth in floral beds.
Through the use of alternative turf management techniques, the city has reduced its use of pesticides to only 1.1%
of its parks and open spaces available for recreation (excluding golf courses) in 2001.
Staff have made major proactive reductions in pesticide use in 2001. Fall herbicide sprays were authorized only for those sports fields, cemeteries and high profile municipal properties which exceeded tolerable pest infestation levels per Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. Of the 566 parks, municipal properties and cemeteries maintained by the New City of Hamilton, only 10 athletic parks, one high profile municipal property (Dundurn), and one cemetery received fall herbicide sprays. Of the 10 parks with sports fields, only the playing field was treated. No-spray buffer zones were established around creeks and playgrounds. Another major change was the move to spot treatment rather than blanket sprays, which further significantly reduced the amount of pesticides applied.
Of noteworthy significance is that of the parks and municipal properties, only 1.1% of total city land maintained for recreation, excluding golf courses, had pesticides applied in 2001. The March 14, 2000 report, Pesticide Use in City Parks PWT00035a, indicated that 219.1 acres, or 7.2% of lands available for recreation had pesticides applied in 1999. This dramatic reduction clearly illustrates the City of Hamilton's commitment to reducing the reliance on lawn chemicals.
Natural Tips for Healthy Lawns and Gardens
Healthy lawns and gardens are not necessarily perfect in their appearance. The environment around us is alive with plants, insects, fungi and other organisms that can be adversely affected by chemicals, including pesticides. If pest problems occur, don't just reach for a chemical solution; try natural alternative methods first. We live together in the same ecosystem - let's make it a sustainable one !
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Alternatives to Pesticides
Handpicking
Handpicking insects and dropping them into a container of soapy water is an effective method to get rid of them.
Water Control
A strong spray of water can knock insect off plants. For delicate plants, handpicking pests is preferable.
Trapping
Jars filled with a water/molasses mix (10 parts water to 1 part molasses) lure flying insects and cause them to drown.
For slugs and snails, put 1 tsp. yeast, 1 tsp. sugar, 2 tbsp. flour, and 2 cups of warm water in a plastic container. Bury the container in the ground 1/2" above the soil. Wood ashes, sprinkled around choice plants, act as a deterrent.
To trap earwigs, flatten paper towels or rolled-up newspaper and moisten them. Leave them out at night and in the morning shake the rolls out over soapy water.
Barriers
Barriers keep pests away. Copper barriers are effective for slugs and snails. Also consider sticky barriers.
Garden Friends
Beneficial insects and predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, worms, bees, birds and spiders are attracted to your garden if you provide water, food and a place to live. These creatures will help control your pest populations.
Natural Sprays
Natural sprays: can be made right in your own kitchen. Here are some simple recipes:
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Natural Fungicide: 1 tbs. of baking soda in a gallon of water controls powdery mildew.
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Natural Insecticidal Soap: 1 tbs. of dish detergent in 1 gallon of water is effective when applied on the top and underside of leaves. Leave on for 1/2 hour, then rinse.
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Garlic Insecticidal Spray: in a blender combine 1 garlic bulb and 2 cups of water. Set aside for 1 day, then strain the liquid. Mix the liquid with 1 gallon of water and apply to the tops and undersides of leaves.
Lawn Tips
In the Spring:
Rake up the grey/pink snowmold and winter debris and dispose of it. Don't compost this debris which may house overwintering bacteria, insects, and fungus. Spread a light layer of compost and overseed if necessary. Sharpen your mower blades.
Mow High:
Optimum grass height is 3"; it grows deeper roots, and crowds out most weeds. Leaving short grass clippings on your lawn is an easy way of adding nutrients to the soil (doing so significantly reduces fertilizer needs). Never cut more than 30% of the grass blade at a time.
Aerate:
Annual aeration works wonders for compacted or heavy soils. Aerators are available at equipment rental businesses or contact a qualified landscape professional. Aeration allows oxygen and moisture to get to the roots of your grass. After aerating, rake to break up cores, and overseed if necessary. Core aerating is one of the best ways to get rid of thatch.
Watering:
A thorough watering once a week is far better than light, frequent irrigation. Give the soil 1" of water once a week by letting the sprinkler run for 1 hour. If you notice runoff when you're watering, turn off the sprinkler and give the surface water a chance to soak in.