5. Avoid Using Harmful Chemicals | 10 mins

Toxic chemicals such as Glyphosate and Neonicotinoids that are found in many weedkillers and pesticides are incredibly harmful to the environment and should always be avoided. We know that neonicotinoids (used to kill insects) also affect bees and other pollinators, and toxic weedkillers can harm soil life and create residues in the soil. Recent research shows that Glyphosate formulations also destroy the micro organisms that live in healthy soil, and significantly affect vital earthworm populations with chemical residues taking years to break down. (To find out more, read the Garden Organic 'Glyphosate Debate')

The main reasons to avoid chemicals are:

• Pesticides and weedkillers also destroy other life forms. 
• They can cause serious pollution, either during manufacture or from their residues.
• Research suggests they can become ineffective over time, or if used in large quantities.

Next page: Managing pests, weeds, and diseases