It is not possible to obtain a totally weed-free lawn without using toxic chemicals, but good results can be obtained fairly easily with natural weed control methods that do no harm.

*The main secret is proper mowing. Mow high and more
frequently during cooler, wetter periods. Cut grass
to 2 1/2 inches in spring and late summer; 3 inches
(and mow less frequently) during the hot, dry summer
days. Leave the grass clippings on the lawn - they
help protect against drought, decompose rapidly, and
nourish the lawn. Grass clippings do not promote
thatch. But thatch should be removed, using an
aerator with spring-loaded tines.

*Don't over-fertilize. Do use organic fertilizer.
Plant clover seed with your grass to give a natural
(and free) source of nitrogen fertilizer, and to make
a more attractive lawn.

*Don't water excessively, especially during hot, dry
periods. A healthy lawn should have a dormant period
during mid-summer.

*Remove dandelions using a hand tool that cuts the
root several inches below ground level. Or learn to
like the yellow flowers.

*Insects and fungus are not a problem in a healthy
lawncthat is not over-watered, has little thatch, and
contains clover and an occasional weed.

*Check your soil's pH to see whether to add lime.
Soil kits are available from your County Extension
Agent (390 George St., 8th floor, New Brunswick; 732
745 3443). Your county agent will also help you find
out what kinds of grass are right for your property.

REMEMBER, NO CHILD EVER GOT CANCER BY PLAYING ON DANDELIONS, CLOVER, AND VIOLETS! For more information check out the Matching Results in GoogleTM; under "organic lawn" (remember to use the quotation marks). Also see: Redesigning the American Lawn, by F. H. Bormann, et al., Yale University Press. Some lawn maintenance companies offer organic lawn care - check your Yellow Pages.

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INDOOR INSECT PESTS can also be controlled without dangerous chemicals.

For example, roaches can be controlled with insecticidal boric acid powder (relatively non-toxic), which is available in hardware stores.

Carpenter ants, which nest in moist rotting wood, often under flat porch roofs, are very annoying to most homeowners. If you see more than 5 a day inside your house, there may be a nest in the house. This is a sign that you need a carpenter (to repair the leak and replace the rotting wood), more than you need an exterminator. Carpenter ants can be controlled with silica powder or diatomaceous earth (an ingredient of toothpaste), usually available in garden stores.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SAFE AND EFFECTIVE INSECT CONTROL IN HOMES AND SCHOOLS, SEE: <www.beyondpesticides.org>

Prepared by the Highland Park Board of Health