Letters

Many of us are now concerned about the environment at the same time we want to eliminate mosquitoes, ticks and other insect pests from our yards. We know that pollinators — birds, bees, butterflies, moths and other insects — play a significant role in the health of our fruit and vegetable crops and gardens. And we know that bees and butterflies are declining and vulnerable.

Many of us think that organic pesticides could be a solution, but don’t kid yourself — they are designed to kill more than mosquitoes and ticks.

Sadly, as highlighted in a University of Illinois Extension report, “Homeowners use a lot of pesticides. Statistics show that homeowners use three times more pesticides per acre than commercial agriculture producers. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service estimates the number to be even higher; their reports claim pesticide use in lawns is 10 times higher than in commercial agriculture.”

I find it very disturbing when I see a truck pass by with a large sign saying “eliminate your mosquitoes, ticks and other pests organically.” Organic pesticides can be less toxic than synthetic pesticides, but both are designed to kill and can be harmful to pollinators, pets and humans.

Perhaps you recall seeing fields of butterflies from your childhood. Well, guess what? Almost all so-called organic pesticides kill butterflies too.

A pesticide is a pesticide, whether organic or synthetic. The word “organic” may suggest a veneer of credibility and acceptability. Yet organic pesticides can be as destructive as their synthetic counterparts.

I try everything possible not to use pesticides in any form, organic or synthetic. You can go the old-fashioned route, and pick or cut out the pest, or plant varieties of plants that are resistant to pests. Use natural solutions, like ladybugs to control aphids, and plates of beer to control slugs. Plant herbs and flowers around decks that act as mosquito repellents, like citronella grass, catnip and lavender, and recognize that most so-called pests are not pests but are helpful in pollination.

Please consider what really matters: stopping so-called pests or protecting our environment. I would love to see fields of butterflies again. “Organic” doesn’t always make it good — explore other ways to protect our environment at the same time you protect your property.

Melissa Morgan Nelson

Quogue

Ms. Nelson is president of the Westhampton Garden Club — Ed.