Organic gardening has become more popular with increased concern about the effects of fertilizers and chemicals on the environment, as well as overall health. Another benefit of organic gardening is that it is relatively inexpensive. Here are some helpful techniques to help you learn to garden organically.
You should teach your children how to garden alongside you. The benefits for your children will be a closer bond with nature and an understanding of where food comes from.
If you are a fan of organic, sustainable gardening methods, consider leaving part of your backyard untouched so that natural plants and wildlife can flourish in the area. Most likely, you will find your organic garden producing better once your property is home to the insects, birds, and other wildlife that plants rely on for pollination and the production and dispersal of seeds.
For in-home organic gardeners, you are looking for an ideal temperature of around 60-75 degrees for your plants. Your plants will not grow well if it is too cold. If you are not willing to keep your house that warm during winter, you could always get the organic plants a heat lamp.
When you are cultivating an organic garden inside, you should think about the lighting situation. If your apartment or home does not receive a huge amount of sunlight, you might want to grow plants that adapt to medium and low light environments instead. If you want to grow a plant which requires more light, you can invest in grow-lights.
Use approximately two or three inches of natural, organic material as some mulch in every single flower bed. This fights weeds, retains moisture, and gives your garden valuable nutrients. As an added bonus, a nice mulch can help make your garden look more finished.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds can benefit many types of soil. Coffee grounds have nitrogen that plants will utilize. The more nitrogen you have in the soil, the greater the growth of your plants will be, so adding grounds or compost will ensure your plants grow large very quickly.
Spacing is essential when planting an organic garden. Plants take up quite a bit of space as they grow, and it’s easy to underestimate just how much. Air circulation and room to grow is important for any plant. Plan accordingly and put an appropriate amount of distance between seeds.
Old laundry baskets are handy tools at harvest time. The basket strains the produce as well as stores it while you are going through your garden. The basket won’t be affected by the water and it will drain right off as though it were poured into a large sieve.
In your compost, use green and dried plants in equal parts. Green plant material consists of spent flowers, veggie and fruit waste, leaves, weeds, and grass clippings. Dried material includes straw, shredded paper, and cardboard. Don’t throw charcoal, meat or manure into your compost.
More Gardening Ideas & Resources
Organic gardening is healthier. You won’t be exposing your plants – and yourself to toxins or chemicals. Use the tips you just read to help you start planting your organic garden. When you work to keep your garden in tune with nature, you’ll also see more birds and animals stop by for a visit.