Health Canada has information, regulations, and guidelines for pesticide use. They also have helpful information on the risks of using Herbicides. This list regarding pesticides was compiled by Sally Hossain, a Master Gardener in our Society, of Canadian sites that discuss alternatives to the chemicals our parents had access to when we were kids. Those product brands are still available but without the “harsher” chemicals that did the job. But of course, those chemicals caused environment issues and the newer formulas do not.
Below is a list of links and topics to effectively handle pests and weeds without creating more environmental concerns.
- Pesticides and food safety. Information that ensures you are safe if you grow or buy foods treated with pesticides! Use this link.
- The Health Canada Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) is responsible for pesticide regulation in Canada. Created in 1995, this branch of Health Canada consolidates the resources and responsibilities for pest management regulation. Read what your government is doing for you. Link.
Our Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA) governs all Garden and Horticultural Societies in Canada. At the bottom of their Resources page (https://gardenontario.org/resources/) there are links to many interesting sites. Here are a few but you may want to check out the Invasive Plant information as well:
· Canada’s Plant Hardiness Site This site explores the relationship between plants and climate across Canada. One portion of the site is dedicated to zone maps showing plant hardiness.
· Environment Canada This site is a comprehensive source of information related to the environment and the weather.
· Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) This government ministry is responsible for the food, agriculture, and rural sectors of Ontario. Within the OMAFRA site, there is also some good information.
- Type “Weed Killers” in the search window of the OMAFRA site and you’ll find some interesting articles on weeds including their ability to be resistant to herbicides as well as help to identify the type of weed you have.
- The Online Gardener's Handbook 2010, Chapter 2: Integrated Pest Management. Pesticides in an Integrated Pest Management Approach. BTW: Chapter 7 talks about lawns. Link here.
Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) is responsible for administering the Pest Control Products Act on behalf of the Minister of Health. The Pest Control Products Act regulates the products used for the control of pests. Link here. You may want to read about the sections on Pesticides for Lawn Care and Minimizing Your Risks: Use this link to then go to the sections of interest to you.
Article by Sally Hossain, Master Gardener with copy editing by Doreen Coyne. Both are members of the Richmond Hill Garden & Horticultural Society.
