Whole Health Naturopathic Medical Center: Organic Gardening

Growing a garden is a satisfying summer activity that provides not only exercise, but also fresh flowers or vegetables, and even stress relief! If you grow a garden, it is important to consider the chemicals you apply to your garden and surrounding lawn. Growing an organic garden is good for you and for the environment. Here are some tips for organic gardening:

1. Never spray your garden with chemical pesticides or herbicides. The best defense against insects and plants is healthy soil. Healthy soil promotes hardier plants which are better able to withstand pest infestations. Weeds can be spot treated with a squirt of vinegar.

2. Do not apply chemical fertilizers to the soil. Use of inorganic fertilizers can cause toxic chemical build-up in the soil and water supply. Rather than using a chemical fertilizer, consider boosting the health of your soil naturally. Add organic compost and rotate plants each year to prevent nutrient depletion. Ensure that your garden has good drainage, which will prevent sogginess and root damage. You can even add earthworms, which will create their own fertilizer for your garden and condition the soil.

3. Use compost. Composted fertilizer is natural and easy to create on your own. Adding compost will improve the soil’s nutrient status, stimulate healthy root growth, and aerate your garden bed. It also improves the soil’s texture and structure. Check out your local library for books on composting, or contact the UNH Cooperative Extension at 1-877-398-4769.

4. Choose the right plants. Picking the right plants for your soil, sun exposure, and climate means you end up with healthier, stronger plants that resist disease and well adapted.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

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