by Jack McKinnon

It has been proven that a placebo has a significant chance of helping cure an ill patient. But sometimes the “nocebo” effect comes into play, and the opposite happens — people expect to feel worse, and they do.

If people expect to feel ill from exposure to a chemical, they will be ill, even if that chemical is plain water. In this month’s tips I will try to clear up some myths about spraying, fertilizing and feared gardening practices.

1. Myth: A person carrying a sprayer is probably spraying a highly toxic substance.

Fact: A person carrying a sprayer may or may not be spraying a toxic substance.

2. Myth: Garden sprays lead to enormous amounts of toxic runoff into the water table and the San Francisco Bay.

Fact: In 38 years of gardening professionally I have seen fewer than 20 people spraying their gardens. I don’t see how spraying could be causing even measurable levels of toxic buildup in any water systems.

3. Myth: The problem of pests in most gardens requires significant concern.

Fact: The best way to control pests is by having a healthy garden. The best gardeners don’t worry about pests until — and if — they arrive.

4. Myth: All spraying is toxic to the earth.

Fact: Many sprays including water, horticultural oils, soap and baking soda solutions help control pests and fungi without being toxic.

5. Myth: All “organic” sprays are safe to use.

Fact: It is just as important to read the label of an organic spray as a synthetic spray. Some “organic” sprays are very toxic and require using significant precautions such as gloves, goggles, protective clothing and a respirator.

6. Myth: Commercial farmers are careless about spraying and dangerous to everybody.

Fact: Commercial farmers are highly regulated in what and when they spray. They are required to have a state-certified applicator, and to be knowledgeable about safety, laws and regulations.

7. Myth: Pest control is an all-or-nothing practice.

Fact: Knowledge is far more valuable than fear. Know if you really have a problem; if in doubt, go to a nursery with a sample and ask. Common Ground in Palo Alto, at 559 College Ave., has an extensive library with answers to most gardening problems, including non- or low-toxic methods for pest control.

Learn about insects in your garden and your neighborhood. They are truly fascinating and fairly easily controlled. Learn about pest control and if you have a need to spray, learn the least toxic methods. Try not to fear what you don’t know. Find out.

Good gardening!

On the Web:

harvardmagazine.com/2005/05/the-nocebo-effect.html

Jack McKinnon is a garden coach and can be reached at jack@jackthe gardencoach.com, or call 650-455-0687. Visit his Web page at  www.jackthegardencoach.com.