Florida Yards &
Neighborhoods (FYN) ...

FYN Principle #6 -
Control Yard Pests Responsibly

Did you know that only 1% of insects are considered pests on plants; the other 99% are either beneficial or harmless! For this reason, you should employ the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

• First identify the insect or problem (Charlotte County Master Gardeners can help you with this).

• Then address the problem with the “safest and most effective” solutions available.

• Pesticides should be the last option.

More Responsible Pest Management Tips

• DO NOT indiscriminately treat for pests. Identify the specific pests and only treat the affected plant. For small infestations, simply remove the affected parts of the plant or the pests.

• Don’t kill it unless you know what it is.

• “When we kill off the natural enemies of a pest, we inherit their work.” -Carl Huffaker

• Ladybugs, lacewings, praying mantises, assassin bugs, spiders and parasitic wasps are all beneficial insects that prey upon pests such as aphids and mealybugs.

• Use environmentally friendly products and methods such as horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps, Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), removal of the affected plant part and introduction of beneficial insects.