The changing view on the use of chemicals in our gardens

Many municipal governments, including the City of Ottawa are now considering, or are in the process of developing, a by-law that would prohibit the use of pesticides for cosmetic purposes on private property.

Looking back fifty years or even twenty years ago, pesticide use was pretty much unregulated. During those times, some rather dangerous chemicals were being used to beautify our lawns and gardens and give us flawless fruits and vegetables. Going back even farther, some of the advice given in our own "Ottawa Horticulturist" (the then official organ of the Ottawa Horticultural Society), is a little unsettling. The May 1911 edition of the journal (Volume 1, Number 5) offers a number of remedies for gardening problems, including one for preventing the Colorado potato beetle. This recipe involves 3 pounds of Arsenate of lead to forty gallons of water. (Lead arsenate was banned from use on food crops in the 80s.)

During the latter half of the 20th century, it became clear that there were serious problems stemming from some of the chemicals we were using in horticulture. For example, elevated levels of dangerous chemicals in our bloodstreams increased frequency of diseases linked to chemical use or chemicals in the water table.

The Supreme Court decision rendered last year on the community of Hudson, confirmed the legality of local governments passing pesticide ban legislation. Should Ottawa pass such a by-law, it could seriously affect the gardening practices of some members of the O.H.S.

Our municipal government has taken a first step towards banning chemicals for cosmetic use by ending their use on city property. Alex Cullen, a councilor who has been instrumental in moving the pesticide ban agenda forward describes the two-pronged approach being pursued by the city: 1) an education program on safer alternative methods of pest control; and 2) regulation on the basis of health protection.

A number of interest groups support a total ban: environmental activists, the medical community (College of Family Physicians), individuals with environmental sensitivities, organic gardeners, pet owners and mothers of young children. As proof that flourishing pesticide-free gardens are possible, Mr. Cullen sites a local high-profile residence with beautifully maintained gardens - our own Rideau Hall.

O.H.S. members should be aware that a draft by-law is expected to be introduced in the fall. The process will be public and representations from concerned community members and groups will be welcomed. There will probably be some exemptions from the law, such as control of noxious weeds and other specific controlled circumstances.

Members who feel strongly about pesticide use should keep abreast of developments on the pesticide ban front and take advantage of the public process that will be followed before a decision is taken. For those who are interested in alternative approaches to chemical pesticides as well as more information on pesticides, the City of Ottawa maintains a Pesticide Line at 724-4227.

Please contact the OHS or the author if you wish to republish these articles. © Ottawa Horticultural Society

Back to index of articles