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Health Canada Health products

Controlling Lawn and Garden Pests Safely

Issued May 31, 2019
What to do
If preventive measures are not enough, and you decide to use a pest control product, you are responsible for using pesticides safely . Health Canada offers this advice to help you protect the health and safety of those around you, and the environment, when using outdoor pesticides: Always follow all label directions, which may include: wearing protective clothing or other equipment specified on the label; applying pesticides only at the rate stated on the label; and making sure that the pesticide label says the product is for the intended area, and lists the insect or weed you want to control. Make sure you wait the amount of time directed on the label before harvesting any garden crop treated to control home garden pests. Never spray a pesticide outdoors if the wind speed is more than 8 kilometres per hour (5 miles per hour), if the air temperature is above 30°C (86°F), or if it is raining. Check your local weather forecast for up-to-date temperature, wind and rain information. Remember, reading and following pesticide labels is important! If you are unsure of how to best manage a particular lawn or garden pest problem, visit our website for more information, or consider hiring a licensed pest control operator.