The latest Dirty Dozen List has been released and there are some new surprises on it this time ’round, in that there are two items that haven’t been on the list before. The Dirty List are those foods sold commercially that after processing, washing and preparing at home still have large amounts of trace pesticides within the skin and flesh. These are the fruits and vegetables that you want to purchase organic or substiture for something else. As we enter the seasons of bounty in our region keep in mind the dirty list. Below are the the top 12 from most pesticide residue to least of the worst:
#1 Celery
#2 Peaches
#3 Strawberries (especially foreign)
#4 Apples
#5 Blueberries (NEW to the list)
#6 Nectarines
#7 Bell Peppers
#8 Spinach (NEW on the list)
#9 Kale
#10 Cherries
#11 Potatoes
#12 Grapes (especially foreign)
Notice that most of the items listed are things that can be grown in your own backyard or those that are available regionally. When planning your annual trip to the berry patch or your weekly jaunt to the farmstand or farmer’s market keep the dirty list in mind and ask questions. One of the most valuable pieces of local farmers is the ability to have a converstation with them and letting them know what you want.
The 15 rated lowest in pesticide residue (although not petroleum-based fertilizers) in order of least pesticide residue are:
onions, avacado, sweet corn, pineapple, mango, asparagus, sweet peas, kiwi, cabbage, eggplant, papaya, watermelon, broccoli, tomato, and sweet potato.
This is the time of year that all the local plant sales appear. Listed below are a few of the area plant sales in the coming weeks. Keep your eyes out for plant sales in your area, neighbors, garden clubs, elementary schools, and churches often hold plant sales through May.
Columbia River High School Plant Sale
Herbs, Veg, Annuals, Perennials, and more
May 7, 9am to 4pm and May 8, 10am to 3pm
Ridgefield Highschool Plant Sale
Annuals, Perennials, Baskets, and more
May 7, 9am to 5pm and May 8, 9am to 3pm
Camas Mother’s Day Sale
Plant, Garden, and Informational Vendors
May 8, 9am to 4pm, Downtown Camas
Master Gardener’s Plant Sale
Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, Annuals, Veg
KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR BEFORE YOU GO
May 8, 9am to 4pm and May 9, 10am to 3pm
1919 NE 78th Street, Vancouver (the old poor farm)
