Bath is committed to reducing our landfill bound waste, recycling, and reducing or eliminating the toxic insecticides, herbicides, and other products suffixed with “cide” (meaning “to kill”) predominantly sold in garden center operations and used in chemically intensive agriculture, chiefly organophospates and organochlorides  See the article here.  These “nukes,” may be effective in killing the intended target, such as pests, fungus or weeds, but unfortunately they are also highly toxic to people, pets and the array of beneficial microbiology necessary for organic soil ecology.

As organic advocates have stated for decades, the health of the planet is dependent upon the health of the soil.  The ancient wisdom of organic agriculture has been reinvigorated in response to what has been found an unsustainable practice of chemical reliance.  Environmental toxicity resulting from use and overuse of over-the-counter “cides” is a disconcerting and formidable problem.  Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives.

Organic In Our Greenhouses

First, we hired a highly qualified team member to aid our understanding of the molecular science and biology underpinning a successful organic paradigm.  We would like to introduce Rick Holmes, M.A. Biochemistry from California State Lutheran.  Rick has been involved in organic horticulture and arboriculture since graduating in 1983.

Prior to Rick’s involvement, we had been using pyrethrin-based pesticides for our greenhouse operations. This organic compound, derived from Chrysanthemum seeds, is generally considered a safe organic alternative, as it rapidly breaks down in the presence of oxygen and light.  However, it is often mixed with other petroleum products, and in higher quantities, it has negative neurological effects on humans. See the article here.

We want our house plants, ornamentals, herbs, and citrus to be safe for our customers.  With the expertise of Rick, we were able to create a completely safe and effective pesticide from products found at the grocery store.  We're experimenting with a mixture of soap, cayenne pepper, vinegar, banana peels, horticultural hydrogen peroxide, and water to control soil borne pests such as aphids, mealy bug, fungus, and white fly.

Though the organic approach requires continuous monitoring and adjustment, we believe the benefits of implementing a more natural pest control schedule far outweigh the time required to do so.  And generally it is difficult to quantify the benefit of having a safe, chemical-free shopping environment for customers and employees, as well as beautiful, healthy, and nontoxic plant material for our customers to take home. 

Stop by Bath Garden Center to learn more about organic pest controls, or bring your problematic pest for a customized safe and organic solution.  We will continue to pioneer solutions for plants and the people they care for!  

                                                                         -- Spencer Bath