Organic Gardening

Organic gardening is the natural method of farming and gardening and is a principle that emphasizes increasing the natural health of the soil. Organic gardening does not utilize any synthetic or chemical fertilizers or pesticides. They only use animal or vegetable fertilizers, natural pest control and beneficial insects. Organic gardeners work with nature to generate a healthy, productive garden.

Compost is the building block of an organic garden. Compost is where the garden gets its primary source of nutrients. Compost promotes the presence and growth of earthworms, which naturally turn over the soil and add additional nutrients to it. Compost is made from rotting and decaying leaves, fruits and vegetables and basically anything that was once alive. Even cardboard, which is far removed from being alive, makes good compost, as it is rich in carbon.

Mulch is another instrument for planting and maintaining an organic garden. Mulch helps to control the weeds and any other plants one does not want growing in their garden. In addition, it is used as an insulator for the garden in both the hot and cold weather. Mulch can also be used to highlight the garden layout and show the difference between the garden and walking path.

One of the biggest challenges for an organic farmer is pest control. One of the best ways to deal with pests is to keep a close eye on the garden and notice when the plants start showing signs of insects. Insects can be removed by hand or, if there are too many, a solution of extremely diluted soapy water can be created. However, biodegradable soap must be used to make the soapy water solution. The solution can be sprayed on the plants or the plants can be hand washed. After using the solution the plants are then rinsed with clean water.