Try Integrated Pest Management for Bugs

I was surprised to see your “Gardening Q&A;” columnists’ advice about controlling the proliferation of aphids (Sept. 4). Today, integrated pest management (IPM), not toxic spraying, is the way to go. He should be aware of growing concern over the possible adverse health effects of the chemical poisons he recommends.

The City of Beverly Hills’ Health Commission (four of its five members are physicians) and the City’s Recreation and Parks Commission have endorsed the IPM methodology. The City Council has approved the purchase and release of both ladybugs and lacewings to help control the annual aphid infestation of certain street trees.

So far we have met with considerable success. However, it will take time for this technique to be as fully effective as we want it to be. But for the health-sensitive and concerned among us, it is definitely the preferred way to go.

ELLEN STERN HARRIS

Executive Director

Fund for the Environment

Beverly Hills