Going Organic Basics
We hear about organic gardening in virtually every garden magazine or gardening program today. At times we have such an overload of information that we tend to gravitate away from the subject. Today I’d like to give you just a few beginning steps toward the practice of organic gardening.
It all begins with the soil. Compost adds vital nutrients, improves the soils texture and air circulation. Compost is made from the natural decay of organic materials like leaves, grass, or food scraps. There are many types of compost bins that you can buy or build yourself. I believe that whatever works best for you is the one you should choose. It is also perfectly fine to purchase packaged compost from your local garden center.
Use organic fertilizers. If you are using fresh manure from a local farmer be sure to ask if the hay fed to his livestock was treated with a herbicide. Some herbicides will carry over for years in the manure and can damage or even kill your garden crops. Manure purchased in bags at your local garden center is pesticide free and safe to use. Blood Meal and Bone Meal are both dried, ground slaughter house products. Blood Meal is a source of Nitrogen. It also has shown to help repel rabbits in the garden. Bone Meal is a source of phosphorus and is excellent when planting flower bulbs. Fish emulsion is produced from the fluid by- products of the fish oil/fish meal industry. It contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as well as micro nutrients. Milorganite is a widely known fertilizer commonly used by gulf courses. It a trademark biosolid fertilizer produced by the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewage District. It is made from the bacteria that feeds on sewage and not from the sewage itself (but I wouldn’t recommend letting the bag get wet). It is USEPA approved for use on lawns, trees, flowers and vegetables.
Prune plants to ensure good air circulation, prevent fungus infection and naturally stimulate new growth, flowers or fruits. Encourage beneficial insects. These are simply “the good guys” that are used to control garden pests naturally. The larvae of these insects serve as predators that feed on the insect pests in the garden. The most familiar are Ladybugs and Praying Mantis; however, there are many other insects also used for this purpose. Attract adults by providing them with food sources of nectar and pollen. Plants in the carrot, daisy, or mustard families will be a good place to start.
Use non chemical, organic pest control when needed. Insecticidal soap is a potassium fatty acid type of soap used as an alternative to chemical insecticides. Pyrethrums are natural compounds derived from Chrysanthemums which also have a very effective insecticidal quality. Neem Oil is a vegetable oil made from the fruit and seeds of the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica). It has insecticide, miticide and fungicidal qualities. *Note although these are non chemical it is still advised to keep them out of the reach of children. Pregnant woman should always consult with their health professional before using.
Determine the best method of watering. Rain barrels and cisterns are very popular and readily available in various sizes. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation have the added benefit of conserving water over the traditional overhead sprinkler. Grey water systems are also gaining in popularity. Grey (or Gray) water is house hold water from washing machines, sinks, or showers which has been recycled for watering purposes.
These few facts will give you start on your gardening journey. It takes a little effort but it is well worth it. Don’t think of it as work but rather therapy for your soul.
Happy planting everyone!!