Timing is a critical factor when using Powdered Garden Sevin in our yards. Honey bees mistake the microscopic structure of the toxic powder form for pollen because it has almost the identical octagon shape that pollen does. The bees carry the product back to their hives, unfortunately, killing all inside.

It is imperative to use Powdered Garden Sevin only during the time when the plants are not in flower. Bees will not be visiting the plants unless they are flowering so it is fairly easy to help them to avoid this dangerous trap. One of our most common flowering trees that attract honeybees is the Linden tree which is being inundated by Japanese Beetles right now and people have been spaying the trees to prevent damage. This tree’s nickname is the “Bee Tree” and it provides some of the most outstanding honey available. It was flowering up until about two weeks ago unfortunately when the Japanese Beetles were also out. It is times like this to be very attentive to your choices of which pesticide to use if you choose to use one at all. Which would you rather get your honey from?

Of course getting the specific plant problem properly diagnosed is one of the first steps in successfully being able to treat the problem. Identify the problem first, and then look for products that are specifically made for that problem. Consider safer alternative products to use to lessen the severity of the effects of toxic chemicals.

Gone are the days of bombing your yard with anything you have on hand so every plant will look perfect. We need to realize the potential gravity of everything we do to our environment and learn to use chemicals in a way that doesn’t disturb its delicate balance.

One thing to keep in mind…every chemical that has ever been made by man has been found inside the honeycomb honeybees build, including DDT which has been banned in this country since 1972. We can help reduce that problem, starting with our yards, our brains and our consciousness.

--Marilyn