Organic Gardening
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Gardening
WHAT IS AN ORGANIC GARDEN From a high-level view, organic gardening is a simple way to grow fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in an all-natural environment. This means that nothing is treated with pesticides or herbicides and that everything grown is clean, natural, and healthy. With organic gardening, not only is the entire family eating healthier but the environment is also saved from harmful chemicals. Concept Although organic gardening does require a few changes in the way things are done from traditional gardening, if you have never grown vegetation this way before, it is easy to do and makes a great family project. With organic gardening, two basic components exist. The first is creating soil that is natural and rich in nutrients and the second is managing diseases, pests, and weeds, using only natural controls. Keep in mind that when it comes to this natural type of gardening, various methods could be used. However, the method you choose will depend on the type of soil and the type of plants you choose to grow. Being successful at organic gardening does require dedication but you can be sure the first time you taste your homegrown foods or create a colorful bouquet, you will be convinced that the efforts are well worth it. Fruits and vegetables will actually taste better and herbs and flowers will grow strong and healthy. Remember that organic gardening is much more than preparing soil, using mulch, avoiding synthetic disease and pest controls, and planting your plants. Organic gardening is a mindset, changing the way we think about plants in general. The approach to natural gardening is to view plants as a complete system found in nature that gets its beginning in soil. This system then includes water, people, wildlife, and yes, bugs. The key to organic gardening is to work with nature in the growing of plants so that the resources consumed by the garden can be replenished both minimally and consistently. Soil and Mulch The overall concept is that you need to build your soil up to a level of having balanced pH, whether neutral, alkaline, or acidic, before the nutrients are added. What happens is that when the soil’s pH levels are off, you will constantly be battling with different plants that are not growing well. By working with living soil, you will produce pesticide and herbicide-free fruit, vegetables, herbs, and plants, giving them a safe environment to grow. Once you get your organic garden going, you will be able to use any number of natural methods for controlling both pests and diseases. One of the most important things you will need to do is educate yourself on the types of pests found in a garden. The reason this is crucial, especially for an organic garden is that many of the pests you will see are good for the garden and therefore, should not be destroyed. Another important factor of organic gardening is mulch, which will be used for a number of purposes to include: Regulating soil moisture Regulating soil temperature Add nutrients to the soil Controlling weeds |
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