January 25th, 2012 6:54 pm
One of the benefits (if you can call it that) of chemically-enhanced produce is that it grows bigger, faster and cheaper than organic produce. But the risk factor involved is just too much for some people to live with, and thus they attempt to grow their own produce organically. If you fit this bill, check out these gardening tips.
Plant ornamental, edible plants as part of your regular yard landscaping. Good plants to start with include rosemary, thyme varieties, sages, oregano and basil. These all look great mixed with perennials, and they will supply you with enough that you won’t need to purchase them anymore – herbs are expensive automart at the supermarket.
When planting a new tree, never cramp roots into a small hole and always spread out the roots of bare-root stock instead of wrapping them around the stem. Make sure you cut away the plastic, twine, or cable wrapped around balled and burlapped trees before planting. Failure to take these precautions can result in “girdling”, in which a tree strangles, gradually starves, and dies.
If your garden includes plants that prefer acidic soil, such as begonias, roses, and strawberries, you should mulch with a generous layer (two to three inches) of discarded pine needles at the beginning of the autumnal season. As the pine needles slowly decompose, they will release trace amounts of acid into the soil.
A great tip that can help you with organic gardening is to make sure you pick the right containers for your plants. Ideally you should pick containers that are large enough so that the roots have plenty of room to grow. You should also make sure there are holes in the bottom to provide drainage.
Use mulch to protect the plants in your organic garden. Plants need to be protected so that they can grow, since they cannot protect themselves metaphysics courses that well. Some protections that mulch provides includes protecting your plants’ roots from the heat of the sun and and protecting the fragile plant crown during the winter.
Get rid of aphids naturally. Most aphids are taken care of by beneficial insects in the garden, but sometimes you will find an infestation. Aphids can cause plants to be stunted or distorted, and can create a sticky mold that will quickly spread from one plant to another. Use a homemade spray to blast aphids off the plant. A forceful jet of water 2-3 times a day will quickly get rid of them. For a stronger infestation, use insecticidal soap.
Grow basil successfully. Basil is an annual warm-season herb, very susceptible to cold and frost. Sow seed in spring at a depth of about 1/2 inch in full sun. Keep the soil automart evenly moist. When the basil reaches about 6 inches, pinch out the top to encourage bushy growth. Pick continuously before any flower buds open. Pick leaves in the morning after dew has dried, and don’t over wash leaves, as you will lose the aromatic oils.
Mass-produced food will always have its own advantages, but it may not be worth it to you or your family to risk your health for a few extra dollars in savings. If you decide to grow organically, however, you can save hundreds while ensuring that everything you eat is fresh and healthy. Just use these tips to help you grow.