ASHLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Ashland parks officials say organic pesticides were largely ineffective last year in controlling weeds.

Staffers told commissioners this week that organic pesticides generally have to be applied in warm, dry weather, but a cool, wet spring in 2011 allowed weeds to grow and go to seed.

The Mail Tribune reports (http://is.gd/6KXpx2) commissioners aren't giving up on organics. They changed the rules to authorize workers to spray organic pesticides this year without posting 48-hour notices. That way they'll be able to apply the spray before the weather changes.

Organic pesticides contain citrus oil, castor oil and clove oil, which are considered safer for people and the environment than chemical pesticides.

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Information from: Mail Tribune, http://www.mailtribune.com/

Copyright 2012 The AP.