Hey stranger,

Practically Green is the best way to start living a healthier lifestyle. People like you are taking action every day. It’s easy and free to join!

Join Now!

Switch to an organic lawn and landscape service provider

Why This is Green

The synthetic chemicals used in conventional pesticides and herbicides can negatively impact health—that’s how they kill weeds and bugs. Unfortunately using them can impact human and pet health, too. Initial exposure may induce headache, dizziness, muscular weakness, and nausea. More troubling are longer-term effects: pesticides have been linked to cancers, neurological conditions, hormone disruption, and reproductive issues. They have been shown to cross the placenta during pregnancy. And they contaminate our earth and waterways. Exposure can occur via vapor inhalation or residue; dust lingers longer than you’d expect and tracks indoors on your shoes or pet paws. An EPA study found that kitchen floors in most U.S. homes are laden with pesticides, even long discontinued outdoor use ones.

Ask your lawn and landscape service provider to use safer organic methods. If they won’t, switch to one who will. If they also compost yard waste, use electric not gas-powered lawn equipment, and take steps to conserve water, that’s ideal.

Doing so will benefit you, your family, your neighbors (sprays don’t just stay put on your lawn), the landscapers, and the earth we all share. Remember that even certain organic pesticides aren’t completely safe. And while organic lawn care will lead to healthier soil, you might have to learn to live with a few dandelions.

Learn More

How To

Start by asking what your existing provider uses for weeds and pests. Request that they move to organic methods. Find a new provider if they won't—the organic farming association in your area is usually a solid resource.