Chances are, you’ve probably at least heard, if not seen, organic foods at some point. It is fairly easy to see which foods are organic. They have different packaging and are more expensive. In this article, we will offer your some essential gardening tips that can help you to save more by growing organic products at home.
Perennial gardens should be prepared easily and quickly in the ground. All you need to do is use a garden spade to slice under the turf, flip it over, then spread wood chips over the area about three to four inches deep. Let this sit for a couple weeks, next dig into it to plant your new plants.
Once your seeds have germinated they will not need to be kept as warm as before. Move your plants further away from your heat source as they grow. Make sure you remember to remove any plastic films that were on the plant containers to repel humidity and warmth. Watching your plants as they grow will give you the insight on when to employ these tactics.
For your flower beds, organic material should be used as mulch. Two or three inches should be enough. Mulch will minimize weed growth and maximize nutrients and moisture. It also adds a uniform and cohesive look to the garden.
To avoid tracking the mud and dirt that will get on your gardening shoes, use plastic bags. You will be able to go in and out without having to keep taking your shoes on and off.
When you are planning on growing a garden, you should think about the space you will need to provide a healthy growing area for your plants. People often underestimate how much space plants will need when once they’re grown. Beyond just the physical space that the plants will need, you should also consider the airflow that the plants will require. Plan your garden accordingly, and make sure the right distance is between the seeds.
Compost Pile
When you’re making a compost pile, you should use fresh and dried plants to get it started. Green plant material includes grass clippings, spent flowers, vegetable and fruit waste, weeds and leaves. Dry materials, like sawdust, cut up wood pieces, cardboard, straw and shredded paper are good for your compost pile. Materials to avoid during composting include diseased plants, meat, ashes and charcoal.
Slugs are a nuisance that can be easily remedied with the use of an organic beer tramp. Place a container in the ground so that the lip is even with the soil surface. Pour beer into the jar until it is an inch from the top. The slugs will be drawn to the beer and then drown in the jar.
Use untreated wood, stone, or brick to build a raised bed. Be sure that any wood you use isn’t chemically treated, and will be able to resist rot naturally. Cypress, locust and cedar are all very good choices. It is particular important that you don’t use treated wood for vegetable beds, as the chemicals and toxins on the wood could leach into the soil and be absorbed by food plants. You may have previously used treated lumber; if so, you should use a plastic liner to cover it.
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.
