No Neonicotinoids

Honey & Hatch Does Not Sell Seed Containing Neonicotinoids

As the founders of Honey & Hatch, we believe regenerative growing starts with responsible seed.  That is why we do not use or sell seed that is treated with Neonicotinoid pesticides.  Honey & Hatch seed supports pollinators, strengthens soil biology, and contributes to resilient ecosystems, without compromise.

What are Neonicotinoids?

Neonicotinoids (often shortened to "neonics") are a class of highly persistent insecticides chemically similar to nicotine that act as a neurotoxin.  They are designed to affect an insect's nervous system by binding to "nicotinic acetylcholine receptors' which can lead to paralysis and death of the insect.  The introduction and growth of neonics is causing severe declines in pollinators (bees, butterflies), birds, and aquatic invertebrates.  Due to these risks, many regions, including the EU, Canada and several US states have restricted their use, with California implementing strict bans on retail sales for residential landscaping as of January 2025

Why Are Neonics Used and Why They Are Common in Gardening

  • Neonics are systemic.  When applied as a seed treatment, soil drench, or trunk injection, the chemical can move into the plant’s tissues. That means the plant itself becomes toxic to certain insect pests.
  • Neonics can provide longer-lasting protection than many contact sprays.

Where you’ll run into them

  • Agriculture, especially as seed coatings on crops like corn, soybeans, and canola.
  • Home & garden products, sometimes in insect controls for lawns, ornamentals, shrubs, and some “grub” products.
  • Common active ingredients include imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, and acetamiprid.

Why People Worry About Neonics

The controversy is mostly about **non-target impacts**, especially on pollinators and beneficial insects:

  • Because they’re systemic, pollen and nectar can contain residues, potentially exposing bees.
  • They can also get into soil and water, persist for a while, and affect aquatic insects and other beneficial species.
  • Effects can be sublethal (e.g., navigation, foraging behavior, reproduction), not just outright death.

Practical Takeaways for Seed and Garden Context

If you want to avoid them for pollinator-friendly/regenerative positioning:

  • Look for seeds labeled untreated and/or no neonicotinoids.
  • Avoid using soil drenches or grub products that list the common neonics above.
  • If treating pests, prefer targeted, short-lived options (like insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, Bt for caterpillars) when appropriate.