For an organic garden, you need to keep in mind what your
priorities are. If you do not want to use any pesticides what-so-ever, then
handpicking bugs and barriers (such as floating row covers) may be your main
options. There may come a point when you need some help, and there are products
out there that can do that for you.
BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS
I am a big proponent of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis and it’s
counterparts) as it is totally biodegradable, non-toxic to humans, pets, fish,
birds. It affects the digestive system of caterpillars when they eat the
treated plant. Although it will also kill caterpillars of butterflies, they
rarely eat the type of vegetable plant of concern. To be safe, don’t spray
ornamental flowers that normally attract butterflies. Another reason I consider
Bt a really good product is that you spray the plant that is being attacked,
not by contact on each individual insect.
ROTENONE
Although this insecticide is made from natural ingredients
and is biodegradable, it is not non-toxic. It is a contact insecticide
(you have to actually spray the insect itself to work) and is not allowed to be
used on produce to be sold as organic.
PYRETHRUM
This too is a synthetic insecticide made from Chrysanthemums.
It is highly toxic to fish and honey bees. It is a contact insecticide, and
considered to have a low toxicity to humans.
SAFER INSECTICIDAL SOAP
This product is made from natural oils and animal fats and
is effective against aphids, scale and other soft bodied insects. It is
considered non-toxic to humans and approved for use on organic produce. The
downside is if you apply it in really hot weather in a sunny location you could
damage your plants.
