Q. I would like to cut back on pesticide use in my vegetable garden. Is there anything I can start to do as I plant this spring?

A. Most insect pests attacking vegetables require controls specific to that insect. But rotating the crops in your entire vegetable bed is a good cultural practice that can help to control future problems. Insects and diseases often target vegetables within the same plant family. If you have had past problems, try planting vegetables from a different family in the problem area. The basic families include the cabbage family (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, radish, turnip); cucumber family (gourds, melons, squashes, cucumbers); tomato family (eggplant, potato, tomato, peppers); goosefoot family (spinach and beets); onion family (leeks, garlic, onions); legume family (all peas and beans); and the carrot, celery and parsnip group.