A lot of people are becoming more aware of the chemicals that are put in our everyday produce and how this can harm them, this is why they decide to grow organically. Another benefit is that organic gardening techniques are often cost little-to-nothing. Here are some fundamental tips to get you well on your way to being a successful organic gardener.
When you are mowing your lawn do not cut it too closely to the dirt. Higher grass has deeper roots, meaning a healthier lawn that will be less likely to dry out. Grass that is shorter has a root system that is easier to dry out.
A wheelbarrow and kneeling bench or stool are smart investments for your garden. Spending time on the ground is rough on the knees, a portable and light stool can help make gardening easier. Horticulture also requires transporting heavy objects and lots of dirt, so purchasing a wheelbarrow can be a very smart investment.
To help them out, try poring leftover water from steamed vegetables on them. If you grow rhododendrons, azaleas or gardenias, increase the acid in your your soil by working in coffee or tea grounds. If you find that you have a fungus problem, try sprinkling some chamomile tea on your plants.
Vegetables are softer in the heat of the hottest part of the day; even gently picking them at that time can damage them. Also ensure that you use a tool to cut the vegetables off at the vine. If you just yank or twist the whole plant, it may become damaged.
Bring your young ones into the garden with you so they will learn about organic methods. Gardening is a great way for children to learn, and it gives you two a chance to spend some quality time together and produce healthy food.
If sustainability and organic horticulture are appealing to you, leave a portion of the property you own undeveloped to give wildlife a place to thrive. One side effect of this is that where animals thrive, so do birds and insects that help nurture and pollinate plants, which will increase the quality of your garden.
Perennial gardens should be prepared easily and quickly in the ground. Use a spade to dig into the turf, turn the turf over, then spread the area with approximately three inches of wood chips. Wait for a few weeks and plant new perennials in this area.
Make sure you have your gardening tools near you, so you can maximize your horticulture efficiency. You could do this by using a big bucket, or just wear old pants that have some deep pockets. Keep common tools such as your gloves or your pruning shears within reach so that you can quickly and easily maintain your garden whenever you need to.
Pine Needles
Pine is a surprisingly good source of mulch. Some garden plants have a higher acidity, and prefer a more acidic soil. If you are growing these types of plants, simply gather up fallen pine needles for use in your garden. Simply add a layer of pine needles a couple of inches deep to the plant beds. The needles will decompose over time and provide the soil with acidity.
Make sure you consider adequate spacing when planting your garden, so that each plant is given room enough to grow and flourish. Many people don’t realize exactly how much space a plant needs when it grows. Space is necessary for the plants, but air circulation is also important. Make sure that you map out your garden layout beforehand and place your seeds with an adequate amount of space in between each.
Laundry Basket
Use an old laundry basket to gather your vegetables and fruits. The basket strains the produce as well as stores it while you are going through your garden. Rinse off your produce while it’s in the laundry basket, and any excess water will be strained out through the basket’s holes.
In your compost, use green and dried plants in equal parts. Grass clippings, vegetable and fruit leftovers, and grass clippings are all examples of green plant material. Dried plant matter, on the other hand, includes shredded paper, used wood chips and straw. Certain substances will undermine your composting efforts and cancel out any benefits; these include meat, charcoal, ash or plants that have diseases or fungal growths.
Keep the soil healthy by adding mulch. The soil can be greatly enhanced by adding a good layer of mulch to it. It prevents soil temperature from getting too warm on hot, sunny days, which protects your plants’ roots. It greatly reduces water loss, keeping the soil moist with fewer waterings. This also helps all the weeds you have stay under control, relieving stress from your shoulders.
Weather Forecast
If you over-water your plants, they can’t get all the nutrients they need from the dirt. Always check the weather forecast for chances of rain before going outside to water your plants. After reviewing the weather forecast, you can decide whether or not to spend the time and resources watering the garden.
If you use this advice concerning organic horticulture, you will have a healthier yard in no time. Planting a natural garden also encourages wildlife to enjoy your garden, and this even benefits the plants growing within.