All About 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.

Soil health is one of the most important focuses of organic gardening. Even though organic matter (made of partially decomposed organisms and vegetation) only makes up 5-10% of the soil, it is absolutely essential in maintaining soil health. A gardening expert will tell you that organic matter is what binds together soil particles to allow the passage of air and water. Humus holds up to 90% of its weight in water, in addition to absorbing and storing key nutrients. Other microorganisms that live within the soil feeds upon this organic matter, which is what keeps the ecosystem thriving. The best way to increase your organic matter is to add organic compost bought from the store and made in your own kitchen.

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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