Bug Central aims to eliminate toxic pesticides from the home garden by the identification, development and commercialisation of environmentally friendly alternatives.

Stuart Pettigrew, the founder of Bug Central, has worked in the horticulture industry for 30 years. He has worked in various consulting and production roles in commercial horticulture.

During this time he has seen both the damaging effect chemicals can have on the natural balance of growing systems, but also some of the improvements ‘thoughtful’ pest control can achieve.

 

Why Bug Central?

Farmers have long understood that it is both uneconomic and unsustainable to use only chemical pest control options.  Industries such as citrus and apples led the way with Integrated Pest Management, and the use of beneficial insects.

Many of the products that help achieve this balanced control have only ever been sold in ‘commercial’ quantities.  Bug Central helped develop a market for retail packs, and some of these commercial suppliers are now servicing the retail market.

Launched in Adelaide in October 2004 by Stuart Pettigrew, Bug Central provided a range of products and services to eliminate the need for harsh pesticides in home gardens around Australia.

From 2025, the market for good bugs, including the nematodes for millipede control, are being provided by other suppliers. Ecogrow (www.ecogrow.com.au) are suppliers of nematodes for a range of pests. Bugs for Bugs (www.bugsforbugs.com.au) and Biological Services (www.biologicalservices.com.au) also supply a range of good bugs.