The odds are fairly good that you have heard about organic foods or have seen them at the grocery store. You’re well aware of which items the organic ones are. They are usually more expensive and have different kinds of packaging. You can cut the store out of the equation and save a lot of money by planting your own patch of organic vegetables in the back yard!
When growing indoor plants, the thermostat should be set between 65-75 degrees throughout the day. It is important for them to be kept in this temperature range if they are to grow properly. If there are times during the year when you would prefer not to have the temperature that high, another solution you can utilize is to purchase heat lamps for your organic plants.
Keep your gardening tools close by to maximize gardening efficiency. You can do this by using a bucket, or you can wear rugged pants or a gardening apron that has several pockets. Have gloves, shears, a trowel and anything else you need handy for quick use.
Pine Needles
Pine needles should not be overlooked as a great source for mulch. Some plants need acidic soil to grow properly, because of their own acid content. Pine needles to line the bed of your garden are easy to find for these kinds of plants. Cover your beds with the needles, as they will decompose and disperse their acid throughout the soil.
Your compost pile should contain green plants and dried ones in equal amounts. Add grass clippings, waste from fruits and vegetables, leaves, and weeds for the green materials in your compost pile. Dried plant material consists of sawdust, shredded paper, cardboard, straw, and cut-up and dried wood material. Avoid ashes, meat, charcoal and diseased plants in your compost.
When planting seeds in containers, remember that the depth should be at least three times bigger than the seed. However, you should be aware that certain seeds should not be covered at all because they are required to be in the sunlight. Some common examples include ageratum and petunias. If you are unsure if your seeds should be covered, refer to the seed packet, or if that is not available, look for information online.
Try using untreated stone, brick, or wood to create a raised bed. Be sure that any wood you use isn’t chemically treated, and will be able to resist rot naturally. The most popular options for this type of project are cypress, locust and cedar woods. Don’t use treated wood in a garden for vegetables because the chemicals contained in them can leak into the ground. If you already have treated lumber in use, line it with some plastic and replace the soil near it.
If you sell or use organically grown produce in a commercial setting, you should communicate your commitment to natural growing by becoming certified. This will up your sales and prove to your loyal customers that what they have been getting is only the best that you possibly could get.
Growing your garden at home might not be the most convenient thing for you, but you will save a lot of money and always have the confidence that what you’re eating and feeding your family is as fresh and as healthy as possible. Use the tips you’ve learned here and get started on your garden today.
