Organophosphates are a group of strong synthetic insecticides (like maldison and dimethoate) that were once common in home gardens. They're broad and powerful — and we don't recommend them for a food garden.
What are they used against?
A wide range of insects — aphids, caterpillars, beetles, fruit fly and more — but in a backyard patch the collateral damage isn't worth it.
Why do we steer clear of it?
- Toxic to people and pets, and can leave residues on the very vegetables you're growing to eat.
- They kill the good bugs too — bees, ladybirds and lacewings.
- They can persist in soil and water.
What safer alternatives would we use instead?
- Encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds and lacewings.
- Insecticidal soap or neem oil for soft-bodied pests.
- Bt for caterpillars.
- Physical barriers and netting.
For a home veggie garden there's almost always a gentler tool that does the job. For the bigger picture, see our guide to managing pests safely.
Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.
Image: Charles O'Rear, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.