What is the Deal With Neonicotinoids?

Neonicotinoids are chemicals humans apply to hundreds of millions of acres across our country in an attempt to control insects. They are chemically similar to nicotine and began being used in 1994. Neonics are systemic insecticides, which means the chemicals move throughout ALL parts of the plant (leaves, flowers, roots, stems, pollen, and nectar), not just where they are applied. Neonics have been also found to move through the environment, which includes watersheds where they affect aquatic invertebrates too. These chemicals are more toxic to invertebrates like insects than other animals. Neonics can poison insects directly and can also slowly kill by compromising their immune system. They impact the insect’s ability to forage.

Even though neonicotinoids are banned in the European Union, they are the most popular insecticides in the United States. Studies indicate they play a role in the population declines of bees, birds, and butterflies. States are taking action on the home use of neonics. In 2023, Nevada and Colorado restricted the use of neonics in lawns and gardens. There are similar laws in Maryland (2016), Connecticut

(2016), Maine (2018), Vermont (2019), Massachusetts (2021), New Jersey (2022), New York (2022), and Rhode Island (2022).

It is possible to plant so that you reduce insect pressure without resorting to poisons. What can you do?

1. Ask the places where you buy seed and plants if their products have been treated with pesticides like neonicotinoids. Organic may be the best option. Always ask. If they don't know, assume they have been treated.

2. Don’t use pesticides in your own yard. Most infestations are temporary, and your natives are used to it, so they do not need treatment. Natives have adaptations to resist herbivory and compensate for the damage herbivores produce. Consider picking off or hosing off insects instead of spraying. Dish detergent in water is often as effective.

3. If you have a problem area, analyze factors that could be contributing to the problem. Did you place your plants in a place that meets their needs for sun and moisture? Do you have good air circulation? Make changes that do not involve poison.

4. Harvest and save seeds. Swap seeds with fellow gardeners. Systemic insecticides transferred to seeds is negligible.

photo credit: Monica Boutte