Synthetic vs. Organic Pesticides — is One Really Safer Than the Other?

 Organic is Natural, But So Are Belladonna and Arsenic

💬 Opinion | by Guy Saldiveri | July 18, 2026

For some reason there's a perpetual belief that because something is labeled "Organic" it's completely safe.

Because this is such an entrenched and widespread belief, I think it's time to set the record straight.

Let's start right here: Whether a chemical was acquired from Nature's kitchen or Monsanto's lab — it's STILL a chemical!

This is the part that I think gets people: Pesticides — whether organic or not — have only one function: To kill or control. Both can be selective, and both can be broad in their impact.

That right there should knock out any thoughts that what you are about to use is completely safe. 

Let's take Spinosad for example. Other than maybe neem oil, it's probably the most widely recommended and used organic chemical out there. Its impact is amazing for what it was designed for — to kill. 

It works in two ways:

• As a neurotoxin
• As an intestinal toxin

The issue isn't whether or not it works; the issue is that it's a broad-spectrum toxin, and it doesn't check IDs before it drops the hammer. If applied incorrectly, it'll take out that bumblebee just as fast as it takes out that armyworm.

Now when I bring this up, I generally get some pushback:

• I use it because it's organic — that makes it safe.
• It's organic, so it's safe.
• I like it because it's organic.

Now that last one makes the most sense to me. Using organic chemicals which occur naturally does matter to an extent when it comes to things like runoff and overall environmental impact. But remember: it doesn't mean no effect, and it doesn't mean completely safe.

You still have to read the label:

• Learn what the product does.
• Use it correctly.
• Don't assume safety, effectiveness, or overall impact based solely on whether it's organic or synthetic.

And, before using anything, I always consider:

Chemicals in The Garden - Do We Really Need Them?

My golden rules for when you do use them:

• Start with the least toxic method — you can always scale up, but you can’t undo a treatment once it’s applied.

• Think before you spray — the who, what, where, how, and why of things BEFORE you apply any chemicals. This means: Who will be affected? What are you treating? Where will it spread? How does it work? Why is it necessary?

The Takeaway:

Somewhere along the way, "organic" became synonymous with "safe." Nature, however, had a different idea. Natural chemicals and compounds evolved in order to protect parts of nature against other parts of nature. Some are warnings; some provide a much more potent lesson.

And believe it or not, the reverse is also true. Just because a product is synthetic doesn't mean it isn't safe. Many synthetic products, when used correctly, are just as safe — or even safer — than their organic counterparts.

If you appreciate these straight‑shooting, porch‑talk opinions, you’re welcome to follow along on the left — there’s more to come, no pressure at all, just honest company and honest talk. 🙃

Happy Gardening 🌱