• weed image by Antonio Oquias from Fotolia.com
  
  "Weed and feed" is a type of weed-killer and lawn fertilizer that is commonly used in North America. But there are reasons not to take this approach on some lawns. Many of these reasons are quite serious and should not be taken lightly.
  
  

Dangerous for Health

• One of the main ingredients of weed-and-feed, 2, 4-D is a neurotoxin once found in the product Agent Orange. The chemical 2, 4-D has been documented to cause neurological disorders, reproductive disorders, cancer and hormonal disruptions. This information was confirmed by the Extension Toxicology Network in 1996. These health risks are especially dangerous to children who are still growing and developing.
  
  

Not Effective

• Weed-and-feed is one of the least effective forms of weed control available. Typical application of weed-and-feed is applied over the entire lawn. Since weeds generally occupy only a small percentage of the yard, the weed-and-feed is largely wasted. The ingredients in the weed-killer can even cause more weeds to grow because it harms the growing conditions of the entire lawn and also causes the growth of grass to be stunted.
  
  

Harmful to Wildlife

• Weed-and-feed is harmful to humans--and wildlife, too. According to a study by the National Cancer Institute, the chemical 2, 4-D found in weed-and-feed contributed to an increase in cancer in dogs. It has also been shown to increase birth defects and other health problems in birds. The chemical 2, 4-D also is harmful to bees and other insects as well as earthworms and other earth-bound wildlife.
  
  

Banned by Local Governments

• Many local government across the United States have banned the use of weed-and-feed and other products containing 2, 4-D. These communities are concerned about the effects that weed-and-feed has on life forms of all kinds.
  
  

Pollutes Water

• The chemicals in weed-and-feed have also been shown to cause increases in harmful chemicals in local water supplies. The use of weed-and-feed as a fertilizer creates a high level of run-off that collects in sewer drains and pipes, which eventually leads the chemicals to the drinking-water supply. According to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey, 2, 4-D is one of the most common herbicides found in ground water and streams. Because of this, the Canadian Medical Association has banned the use of weed-and-feed products.