[Eblana]

Hi Folks,

I am just studying here for my RHS exam on Plant health.  I have just noticed that there is an exemption under UK law that means that anyone born before 31st December 1964 can use pesticides listed as for professional use on their own or employers land until 26th November 2015 after which they will need certification (it is known as Grandfather Rights if you want to Gurgle it). This may help some of you in relation to chemicals that you have been using and want to continue to use them for a while longer. 

[New shoot]

This is true, but can I add that using products for professional use does carry some risks if you have not been trained in their use (PA1 and PA6 certification) and do not have the correct PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) 

They have been removed from the retail market for a reason 

[New shoot]

Sorry, forgot to add - you need to make sure you have correct storage facilities for these products as well. 

This website covers all the current UK legislation and lots of advice on pesticide use - click the topics in the box on the top left of the page to get a full list.

http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/guidance/industries/pesticides/topics

I am PA1 & PA6 trained as I work in the horticultural sector

[Yorkie]

I'd also add that I suspect (but am not 100% sure) that this exemption doesn't apply to allotments as they are only tenanted and not owned.

[Plot_29@_Lady_Mary]

Rights or not, I don't see why one would want to use pesticides on allotments! Might as well buy vegetables from Tesco's, etc. Isn't it the point to be 'pesticide free' (organic as can be) on our plots? 

[Aunt Sally]

Rights or not, I don't see why one would want to use pesticides on allotments! Might as well buy vegetables from Tesco's, etc. Isn't it the point to be 'pesticide free' (organic as can be) on our plots? 

No that's not the point. 

The point is for each gardener to enjoy growing food and flowers in the way that they want to!  Be that "organic" or using any other "legal" methods.