Garden Centre Group pulls insecticides containing neocotinoids

Leading garden centre company Garden Centre Group has removed Bayer's Provado Lawn Grub Killer from its shelves.

The Garden Centre Group no longer sells insecticides containing any of the three neonicotinoids identified by European Food Safety Authority as being linked to bee decline.

Over recent weeks home and garden retailers including B&Q and Homebase have taken action on neonicotinoids.

GCG's Kathryn Best said: "The Garden Centre Group has removed [Bayer's] Provado Lawn Grub Killer from their shelves. The Garden Centre Group takes any concerns regarding pesticide damage very seriously. New research is due to be published and the Group will review the results and the actions of the market to ensure they continue to be fully compliant with regulations."

The European Commission proposal to restrict the use of neonicotinoids is due to be discussed by Member States on 14 March.

A number of organisations, including Friends of the Earth and RSPB are urging the UK Government to support restrictions on neonics. The RSPB also backs "a ban on neonicotinoid-based products sold for ‘amateur’ use by gardeners and immediate removal of these products from the market."

Friends of the Earth’s Bee Campaigner Paul de Zylva said: "We’re delighted so many stores are taking action on pesticides linked to bee decline.

"Action by retailers will hopefully sting the Government into backing European proposals to restrict neonicotinoids – and introducing a bee action plan to tackle other serious threats our most precious pollinators face.

"Bee loss is a major threat to our crops, gardens and countryside – we cannot afford more delay."

Source : Matthew Appleby – Horticulture Week
www.hortweek.com