According to AgriLife Extension from the Texas A&M System, when synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and synthetic herbicides are not used in plant production, the resulting vegetables are referred to as organic. Pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides are used to protect and promote growth in non-organic vegetables. A wide variety of vegetables are able to be grown organically, though the extra effort organic farming requires often drives up the cost of these vegetables for the consumer.
Squash
Squash, also known as marrow, is ordered into four species. These species include C. maxima, C. mixta, C. moschata and C. pepo. Organic species can be grown in the summer or winter months. According to the West Virginia University Extension Service, management of weeds, insects and diseases need to be considered when growing squash organically. It was found that mulch was a sufficient deterrent of weed growth, biological agents were effective as insect repellents and disease can be controlled by using row covers. Row covers reduce disease by protecting the plants from nature's elements.
Potatoes
The potato is a type of crop that is classified as being a starch and tuber. Starches are complex carbohydrates, while tubers have underground roots that serve to provide nutrients to the plant as well as storage. Controlling pests and unwanted growth in the fields of potato crops is a major concern for organic farmers. In 1992, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, in conjunction with the Center for Integrated Agricultural System, found that farmers used mechanical and cultural practices to control these issues. In comparison to non-organic potato crops, this increased the labor process of organic potato farming.
Sweet Corn
Sweet corn, also known as Zea mays, differs from corn in that is it harvested before maturity. As such its growth process is not allowed to culminate, thus resulting in a sweeter taste. The sweeter taste comes from its high sugar content. For sweet corn to obtain its unique taste, it must be grown in fertile soil. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture notes that nitrogen is necessary for successful organic sweet corn growth. Researchers there found that the soil may be further enhanced through the use of manure and approved natural fertilizers. The National Organic Program regulates organic crop production and approved standards.
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