This is the time of year when our office is swamped with questions about pesticides. Many of us have become reliant on chemicals for insect, disease or weed problems. Pesticides are not the only tools we have for managing pests in our landscapes.

There are many things homeowners can do to reduce the potential for damaging insect problems. In most cases, insecticides should be used as the “treatment of last resort.”

Wise gardeners use non-insecticidal insect management tools to help reduce their reliance on chemicals.

What you grow and how you grow it can have a huge influence on potential insect problems. Listed are a few things you can do to reduce pesticide use at your home.

Grow plant species that tend not to have insect problems – Some plants are just bug-prone. Fruit trees are a good example. If you don’t want to spray, stick with pears. If you don’t mind applying a few sprays each season, plant apples. If you like to spray all the time, then plant peaches.

Plant resistant varieties – Within a given species of plants, some varieties are more pest-prone than others. Knock Out roses are less susceptible to most pests than are the tea roses. Some varieties of Encore azaleas are resistant to lace bugs. Many popular varieties are popular because they perform well under a variety of conditions.

Buy pest-free plants — Avoid paying for a pest problem. Inspect plants before you buy them.

Right plant right place — Plants growing in sites that are not suited for them are stressed plants. Stressed plants are more susceptible to problems. Example: Azaleas growing in full sun are more likely to suffer from azalea lace bug than azaleas growing in filtered shade.

Grow healthy vigorous plants — Fertilize, mulch, prune, water and maintain plants properly.

Avoid over fertilizing, especially with nitrogen — Excessive nitrogen can make plants more susceptible to insect and disease problems.

Use cultural practices that help control specific insect pests — Sanitation is a very effective control method. Cut and dispose of affected material.

Take a look at how you are managing your landscape or home vegetable garden. Pesticides are poisons. They are also expensive and not fun to handle or apply. Use them as a “treatment of last resort” for a healthier environment.

Rebecca Bates is director of the Lincoln County Cooperative Extension Service. To contact her, call 601-835-3460.