Go Organic: Gardening For Today's World

35 or 40 years ago, organic gardening was reserved for "hippie types" and was looked

upon with disdain by those who preferred using more "modern" methods in their home gardens. Today, organic gardening is all the rage thanks to knowledge about the potential harms of pesticides as well as a widespread desire to lead a more natural, "green" lifestyle. If you're finally ready to "go organic" this year, here is an overview of some of the basics.

What is Organic Gardening Exactly?

Simply put, it is the practice of growing flower, fruits and vegetables without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. It is working in harmony with nature to create beautiful and/or edible plants that are healthier for our environment as well as our bodies. Contrary to what you may think, it is actually easier and less time-consuming to maintain an organic garden, so there's really no good reason to do otherwise.

How Do I get Started?

The main philosophy behind organic gardening is that healthier soil produces healthier plants; so there is a lot of emphasis placed on the material that your plants grow in. All soil needs to be built up and replenished on a regular basis, and organic enthusiasts do it using natural minerals and fertilizers: a lot like what our forebears used to use! These might include bone and fish meal, gypsum, egg shells, and the compost you create from your discarded organic materials. The best place to start is with a local nursery that specializes in this type of gardening. They will offer classes and the expert advice you need to get started on the right foot and start transforming your gardens.

But What About the Bugs?

Insects are always a concern for any gardener, and that's why chemical pesticides and herbicides are such an attraction. But remember that our ancestors grew beautiful crops without ever using one single harmful chemical, and you can too! There are both good and bad insects, and most chemicals tend to get rid of all of them, which is not beneficial. Organic gardening focuses on keeping harmful bugs away from plants while still allowing "good bugs" to do their jobs. There are plenty of easy-to-make homemade recipes for natural insect repellants, and as going organic becomes more popular there are more and more pre-made formulas available for sale too.

Making the switch to organic is really not as hard as you think: when you use such practices you can feel better about the flowers you grow and the vegetables you feed your family.

by: Art Gib

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