Green Issues: A enviro-friendly way to tackle garden creepie crawlies

IT S common place to use a chemical or spray to tackle the creepy crawlies and weeds from taking over the garden. But the use of pesticides is a dangerous business – not only for the slugs but also for the wider environment. It is not always necessary to

IT'S common place to use a chemical or spray to tackle the creepy crawlies and weeds from taking over the garden.

But the use of pesticides is a dangerous business - not only for the slugs but also for the wider environment.

It is not always necessary to use pesticides as there are alternatives to chemicals.

Organic gardening methods are one way in which you could get nature to help control any pests or diseases. Why not take a bit of time and enjoy the fresh air and remove the problem weeds by hand?

The Royal Horticultural Society has tips on organic gardening on its website: www.rhs.org.gov.uk.

If a pesticide is needed, you need to ensure that it is authorised for use on particular plants or areas of the garden - it may seem obvious, but read the label: the information is there.

Most pesticides also carry the 'Dangerous for the Environment' label, so make sure it is correctly stored or disposed of without causing harm to the environment.

It is a legal requirement that pesticides are stored in their original container. And if they are stored carefully, the remaining pesticide will be effective for some time, avoiding unnecessary wastage.

Never pour pesticides down the drain as there is a risk this will contaminate water and harm wildlife.

Unwanted pesticides should be taken to your local recycling centre and disposed of in the container provided.

Empty containers should be rinsed completely before placing into your household waste bin.

INFORMATION: For more detail visit www.pesticides.gov.uk