This simple choice can help save Hawaiʻi’s ecosystem
Not killing bees and other insects is a great way to protect our ecosystem and ensure our plant life continues to proliferate. Fanny Brewer of the Hawaiʻi Island Invasive Species Committee has shared her insights on how to combat invasive species while preserving Hawaii’s unique ecosystem. She emphasized the importance of avoiding killing bees and other insects, which are often detrimental to our ecosystem and the indigenous plant life in Hawaii. She advised that understanding the nature of pesticides and their effectiveness depends on their target species. She also emphasized the need to be mindful about the effectiveness of these pesticides in targeting specific species and their interactions within the ecosystem. Brewer advised that following the law to follow the pesticide's label closely and understand the active ingredient of each pesticide, which can be used to target specific species. In the meantime, KHON2.com has provided easy to use remedies for pests that will not destroy pollinators or the weeds they need to survive.
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HONOLULU (KHON2) — Not killing bees and other insects is a great way to protect our ecosystem and ensure our plant life continues to proliferate.
But there are lots of insects that do a good bit of damage to the things we want to grow and to the indigenous plant life here in Hawaii.
Then, there are the weeds. You know, those things that grow that we never planted. But on top of that, because we’re in Hawaiʻi, we have to worry about invasive plant species, too.
There are a lot of factors that come into play when we want to have a garden or lawn. So, how do we navigate this exceptionally dire mind field?
For the answer to that, KHON2.com was able to catch up with Fanny Brewer of the Hawaiʻi Island Invasive Species Committee.
Brewer provided some insights on appreciating weeds for their ability to nurture the foundational insects our ecosystem while also dealing with both plant and insect invasive species. It all boils down to being mindful and having a systemic approach.
“It depends on what kind of species that you’re talking about,” explained Brewer. “So, there are different pesticides that are targeted for different organisms and that can go as far as into specific species, but it could also just be groups. So, when you think about something like herbicide, if you look at the mechanism of action of that, of that product, like what is that active ingredient actually do?”
Brewer explained that a lot of those active ingredients are targeted towards certain mechanisms and plants. She said that we have to dig a little deeper into how these things work and interact within the ecosystem itself.
“The first thing would just be to understand the pesticide that you’re using.” said Brewer. “What is it targeted for? How does it work? You always want to read the label on a pesticide; the label is the law. So, it’s really important that people follow whatever is written on the label.”
She said that you will want avoid harming beneficial insects, like bees and other pollinators. Because without these pollinating insects, we have no food.
You can watch the video above to see Brewer’s full interview. She provides a great deal of insights on how to combat invasive species while preserving Hawaii’s delicate and unique ecosystem.
In the meantime, KHON2.com has some easy to use remedies for pests that will not destroy pollinators or the weeds they need to survive.
• Neem oil spray: Neem oil is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids, mites, and whiteflies. Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil and 1 teaspoon of mild liquid soap with a quart of water. Spray this mixture on affected plants.
• Garlic spray: Garlic has natural fungicidal and pesticidal properties. Blend 2 bulbs of garlic with a small amount of water, strain, and add to a quart of water with a teaspoon of liquid soap. Let it sit overnight before using.
• Chili pepper spray: Chili pepper is a natural pest deterrent due to its capsaicin content. Mix 1 tablespoon of chili powder with a quart of water and a few drops of mild liquid soap. Spray on the foliage of plants to deter pests.
• Vinegar solution: A solution of vinegar can act as a herbicide for weeds. Mix vinegar with water in a 1:3 ratio and spray directly onto the leaves of unwanted plants. Be careful to avoid desirable plants as it can harm them too.
• Soap spray: Liquid dish soap mixed with water can help control many soft-bodied insects like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of soap in a gallon of water and spray on infested areas.
• Peanut butter and oil: A combination of these two household items is a great way to get rid of the little fire ants that are trying to colonize our ecosystem. This mixture can be easily set out in gardens or on your lanai. It will not harm pollinators but will kill the ants.
Remember, when using any pesticide, even natural ones, it’s important to test a small part of the plant first to ensure it doesn’t react negatively. Apply these solutions during cooler parts of the day to minimize harm to the plants and maximize effectiveness against pests.
So, celebrate National Weed Appreciation Day and make this simple choice to save our beautiful and unique ecosystem.
Onderwerpen: ESG