LAWN TIPS!!

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Get your yard off drugs

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Get your yard off drugs

In 2006, the City of Vancouver adopted a bylaw banning the use of cosmetic pesticides on both private and public lands. Pesticides can damage soil and plants, pollute water run-off, kill beneficial insects and may be dangerous to your health. With proper mowing, watering and fertilizing, you can produce healthier lawns that crowd out weeds and reduce pest damage.

Tips to get your lawn off drugs:

DISPOSE WITH CARE:
To dispose of your old pesticides, paint, gasoline and flammables properly, take them to a Product Care depot. For more information about the depot locations and the products they accept, call the Recycling Council of B.C. Hotline at 604-732-9253 or check out Product Care’s website at  www.productcare.org

• Choose pest-resistant plants. Replace problem plants with heartier varieties, and clean up diseased or dead plants to cut down on areas where pests can breed.
• Use pesticides as a last resort. Try alternatives such as removing problem weeds by hand. If you must use chemicals, choose a product from the exempted pesticide list found in the City’s health bylaw 9535.  Always follow the directions for the use of pesticides carefully.
• Accept nature. Learn to live with a few weeds or imperfect plants.

For tough pest problems on private property, consult your local garden centre, or call City Farmer at 604.736.2250 for advice or to sign up for a yard care workshops.

For more information on integrated pest management, visit the Park Board’s Pest Problems.

Comments or questions? Send us e-mail: composthotline@telus.net or call 604.736.2250

© , City of Vancouver, Engineering Services
Last Modified: Monday, July 5, 2010