Pests are controlled by crop and variety selection, planting time, cultural practices, introduction of beneficial insects, and use of naturally-occurring insecticides. Weeds are controlled through cultivation, mulching, crop rotation, and grazing animals instead of herbicides. Farmers can choose to be certified as organic growers by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. More than 150 producers were certified in Washington State in 1989, an increase of almost 100 over 1988. An equal number of non-certified growers probably exist.
Most organic growers raise vegetables and fruits.
However, the number of organic small grain and livestock producers is growing rapidly. Premium market prices and a desire to reduce agrichemical use are spearheading the increase. A switch to organic farming systems is a radical change from current synthetic pesticide production systems. Management and labor time is far greater in an organic operation. Fertility inputs and pest control strategies also differ.