Tips for Landscapers & Home Gardeners

Pesticides, Herbicides & Fertilizers

Nationally, one-quarter of the pollutants found in rivers and streams originate from the residential use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. These materials can enter our waterways through illegal dumping, run-off from excessive lawn irrigation, and from heavy rains.

The following guidelines can greatly reduce the potential of these pollutants from entering our waterways:

  • Consider using less toxic alternative products.
  • Read and follow the recommended application directions on the product label.
  • Use pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer only if there is an actual pest problem (not on a regular preventative schedule).
  • Do not use pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer if rain is expected. Apply only when wind speeds are low (less than 5 mph).
  • Do not mix or prepare pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer for application near storm drains.
  • Prepare the minimum amount of pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer needed for the job and use the lowest rate that will effectively control the issues.
  • Employ techniques to minimize off-target application (e.g. spray drift) of pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer, including consideration of alternative application techniques.
  • Calibrate pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer application equipment to avoid excessive application.
  • Sweep pavement and sidewalk if pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer is spilled or overspread on these surfaces.
  • Purchase only the amount of pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer that you can reasonably use in a given time period (month or year depending on the product).
  • Triple rinse containers, and use rinse water as product. Dispose of unused pesticides/herbicides/fertilizers as hazardous waste.
  • Dispose of empty pesticide/herbicide/fertilizer containers according to the instructions on the container label.

Links & Resources

The following are some external links with information on pesticide application tips and alternatives: