Ontario's Cosmetic Pesticides Ban

What do you need to know about Ontario's ban on the sale of pesticides for cosmetic purposes on lawns and gardens? The ban includes many herbicides, fungicides and insecticides. It became effective on April 22, 2009, and illegalized more than 250 pesticides and 80 pesticide ingredients.

As a homeowner, you want to keep your lawns and gardens healthy, as well as pest and weed-free. There are no exceptions for the use of pesticides on lawns, gardens (vegetable or ornamental), or any other area of your residential property. What can you do to keep your property free of pests now? If you need pest control, and many lawns need some, there are low-risk pesticides and environmentally-friendly biopesticides that won't harm children or wildlife, and are still highly effective. A local garden centre can help you choose the right product for your needs. If you're interested in a safe, integrated pest management solution for your property, contact the experts at Nimby Pest Management for a consultation and package recommendation.

There are also pesticide-free methods of maintaining a healthy lawn, and staying proactive against infestations. Aerating and overseeding your lawn can keep it healthier, more green and lush, and even deter many pests. Even simple changes like keeping your grass a little longer (between 2.5 to 3 inches) can prevent weeds from getting the light they need at the root base to germinate. When weeds do appear, pick them by hand (or using a forked/clawed weeding tool) when the soil is damp. The whole root base will come more easily. Remove as much of the root system as possible and remove them before they start to flower. When they flower and go to seed the weeds will spread farther throughout your lawn. A last natural tip is to use corn gluten meal to inhibit growth. It prevents seed germination and is therefore highly effective against a wide range of weed species. Use it in early spring and then wait at least 4 weeks before overseeding your lawn.