There are a lot of reasons to eat organic food, most notably to reduce the potential chemicals you might ingest from non-organic food, and to limit the amount of toxins introduced into the environment in general. One way to ensure the food is organic, and possibly lower costs, is to directly produce the fruits and vegetables. After start-up costs, an organic garden can provide healthy food, new inspiration for recipes, and a relaxing hobby. And, the flavor is superior, as well.
Make it Organic
Step 1
Decide how you will define "organic." The definition of organic has been bandied about in the labeling wars, but when referring to a garden, it's really about pesticides and fertilizers more than anything else. An organic garden has no chemical from any source that would not be biodegradable or would be harmful to birds or wildlife. However, some "organic" gardens have synthetic substances, others do not. Decide for yourself and consider everything that goes into the garden.
Step 2
Start early to create your own soil. Begin composting by throwing all food wastes into a composter. One with worms works the best. Add leaves in the fall and grass clippings in the summer to put nitrogen into the soil. Mix in manure to add carbon. The carbon/nitrogen ratio should be somewhere near 25-30:1.
Step 3
Choose either seeds or plants. A gardener can start with seeds and after weeks of watering watch the tiny green heads emerge from the soil, or a gardener can start with established plants. The cost factor is certainly to be considered; plants are more expensive. Another factor is time. People living in places with a short growing season can start seeds indoors or buy young plants. Consider whether these seeds or plants have been grown organically.
Step 4
Add organic fertilizers. Soil amendments are necessary after the first year. Plants deplete soil and so does run-off from watering. Add more compost. If plants are nutrient demanding, specific substances may be necessary, such as chicken manure or re-mineralizing rock dust.
Step 5
Manage insects, molds and other invaders. Some organic gardeners see pests as a symptom of unhealthy soil and discourage them through soil manipulation, making chemical and hydration changes in the soil. Otherwise, the insects and molds generally cannot be handled with commercial pesticide, but can be managed through judicious application of organic compounds such as soapy water or vinegar.
Tips and Warnings
- Everything that goes into your garden affects its purity. Think about the sources of every introduction. How about the water? Does it have a lot of chlorine? Are the neighbors spraying their weeds and is that run-off getting into your garden? Talk to the locals. Local gardeners are the best resources on the climate and soil conditions of your area.
- The good news is that an organic garden doesn't use toxins so get in there and use your hands! Take normal precautions against sunburn.
Things You'll Need
- Organic soil
- Organic Seeds or plants
- Organic fertilizer
- Organic pesticides
- Water & sunshine
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