Organic gardening is undoubtedly a very enjoyable pastime, despite the effort, patience and skill involved. It is an activity that has a goal of growing fresh, nutritious food that is free of pesticides. Easier said than done, right? Review the tips in this article and you’ll be on your way to creating a wonderful organic garden.
Use the handles of your tools as a handy ruler when doing your outdoor chores. Tools with long handles, such as rakes, shovels or hoes can work as great measuring sticks. Lay the tools down on the floor, then place a measuring tape along the handle. A permanent marker can be used to label distances. Now when you go garden the next time, you’ll have a giant ruler at your command.
Use climbers to cover walls and fences. These climbing plants will help beautify an old fence, and they are fast workers too. Climbers can also be trained to grow and cover an arbor, and they will grow through or around existing trees and shrubs. There are natural climbers, which use tendrils or stems to wrap around any given surface, while others must be tied with a string or rope. Some climbers that have proven to be reliable are honeysuckle, jasmine, wisteria, clematis, and climbing roses.
The best way to start a garden is from first principles: seeds. Not only is this more of an effective method for horticulture, but it’s also more environmentally-friendly. The planters used to hold nursery plants are generally not made from eco-friendly materials, and thus get thrown into landfills. Starting from seeds, or buying from one of the few nurseries that use biodegradable planters, prevents this.
Don’t forget to use a good fertilizer in your garden. Manure is very effective in helping plants grow, although it is important to use a commercially composted product to minimize the risk of pathogens. There are numerous types of fertilizers available. What type you select is less of a concern; any kind of fertilizer is better than none.
If your gardening plans include pea plantings, try starting them off indoors rather than planting the raw seeds in outdoor beds. If you were to plant them inside first, the seeds should germinate better. You will also have hardy seedlings that will be able to resist disease and pests much better. Transplant them outside when they are fully established and able to thrive.
When you boil vegetables, use the leftover water on your potted plants. Tea and coffee grounds can be used to add acidity to your soil for plants like gardenias and rhododendrons. Herbal chamomile tea is an effective, affordable treatment for fighting fungi.
Organic gardening is a hobby incorporating nature, hard work and patience. A hobby that results in growing something delicious to eat. Follow the tips and put in the needed effort, and you will be a successful organic gardener.
Originally posted 2013-10-14 20:25:03.
