What Is Organic Gardening?
Writer Karel Capek once wrote, “I find that a real gardener is not a man who cultivates flowers; he is a man who cultivates the soil. He is a creature who digs himself into the earth and leaves the sight of what is on it to us gaping good-for-nothings. He lives buried in the ground. He builds his monument in a heap of compost. If he came into the Garden of Eden, he would sniff excitedly and say: ‘Good Lord, what humus!’” As Capek insinuates, the organic gardener is a person with a deep down appreciation of earth in its most natural form. He doesn’t approve of chemicals, pesticides or other man-made substances meddling with what he views as “already perfect.” A rich gardening experience can be cultivated through organic gardening.
Advocates for growing food organically argue that this method is better for several main reasons. First, gardening organically reduces your exposure to pesticides, which have been linked to everything from skin rashes, eye irritations and neurotoxicity to cancer, birth defects and hormone disruption. Secondly, organic food contains a higher concentration of nutrients like chromium, selenium, calcium, boron, lithium, magnesium, vitamin C, carotene and vitamin B. Thirdly, organic gardeners work with manual garden supplies and tools, so they avoid gasoline-powered machines that leave emissions. At the same time, the organic gardener is getting a great workout in! Lastly, this method for growing plants prevents chemicals and contaminants from leaching into the soil and down to our water table, so this style of gardening is much better for the planet overall.
Your main concern when organic gardening is soil health. You want your little ecosystem to be as strong and healthy as possible to support the plants you’re growing and the beneficial microorganisms within the soil that depend upon your plant’s byproducts for nourishment. As you know, these elements work symbiotically to create the best environment for all to survive. Most gardeners begin with a test kit that will provide a detailed analysis of the nutrients present, as well as the acidic or alkaline reading and the drainage level. Garden guides recommend organic compost comprised of decayed matter from table scraps to horse manure. Compost works to add nutrients and aeration to the soil. It also breaks up huge clay clumps to allow for better drainage. Use a tiller when you add your compost to keep air flowing through your garden and encourage earthworms to plow through. If you’re uncertain about your soil’s composition and want to start fresh, then consider buying your soil and using raised beds.
Companion planting is a wonderful method used for organic gardening pest control. By planting certain items next to one another, you can improve the flavor of your food and deter pests. For instance, basil planted near tomatoes adds a hint of flavor while protecting your plants from asparagus beetles, thrips and tomato heartworms. Oregano is best planted near cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers and grape vines to keep away the pests that prey upon them. Garlic prevents raspberry and rose diseases. Borage keeps pests away from tomatoes and attracts pollinating bees to tomatoes, squash and strawberries. Horseradish is good near a potato patch with beans to keep away the potato beetles. Chives planted near apples, roses and tomatoes can reduce the risk of apple scab and aphid infestation. Petunias will keep beans safe from bugs too. These gardening tips will ensure you grow a healthy, pest-free and chemically-free garden.
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