Garden Chemicals

Please find below some tips on using garden chemcials and some useful websites for information:

Which product to use

For the best solution to a garden pest, weed or disease problem ask your local garden centre or try www.rhs.org.uk or www.gardenorganic.co.uk

The Crop Protection Association in conjunction with the RSPB have also produced a useful leaflet about how to control garden pests with wildlife in mind (click here to download).

How to use

Ways to ensure safe use are:

• Do not buy more than you need
• Read the label and use according to instructions
• Check for any restrictions on use, for example near ponds or fish tanks
• Use appropriate equipment to apply the chemical
• Accurately measure the product and do not make up more tha you need
• Only use on the area or plants where you have identified a problem that needs tackling
• Spray in the early morning or late evening when bees and other insects are less active
• Spray in calm conditions.
• Avoid spraying in strong sunshine and before or just after rain
• Consider ready to use products which can be reused until empty and then disposed of in household waste.

Further information can be found at www.garden-care.org.uk  To find out if old products are still legal to use check on-line at www.pesticides.gov.uk/garden.asp

Disposal of garden chemicals

Ways to ensure safe disposal are:

• Use up any surplus solution by applying on the areas coverd by the approved use
• Never dispose of unwanted product, diluted product or rinsings in household drains or ditches
• Rinse empty containers three times and use up rinsings by applying to the area you are treating. Containers can then be safely disposed of in household waste.
• Dispose of unused product, in its container, at a registered household waste site

Your local council can give advice on disposal of garden chemicals or empty containers.  Some councils may offer a free collection service.  For further information see www.pesticidedisposal.org