In the world of organic horticulture, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced organic gardeners alike. There are many e-guides, books, videos, and other resources available. This set of tips contains some of the best advice for helping a good organic gardener become a great organic gardener.
Use climbers if you want to cover any fences or walls. Climbing plants are extremely versatile, helping to hide an ugly fence or wall, often within one growing season. They also work to cover up old, and possibly dead, vegetation. Some types of climbers support themselves naturally through twining stems or tendrils, but others will have to be attached to something. If you’re looking for the most reliable varieties available, choose from clematis, wisteria, and climbing roses.
Make sure you protect any tender deciduous shrubs. Cold weather significantly affects these plants, especially if they are in pots. Fasten the tops of the canes together, and cover this wigwam loosely with a cloth. This is better than using plastic to wrap the plant, as more air can circulate.
Using pest-resistant plants or natural materials in your garden is a good way to keep pests away. Planting marigolds or onions around the border of your vegetable garden will help repel slugs. Another way to get rid of pests is to spread wood ash at ground level around shrubs and tree plantings. Using methods like these eliminates the need for chemical pesticides, which can be harsh or even harmful.
Spectrum Pesticides
Broad-spectrum pesticides should be avoided in your garden. Broad-spectrum pesticides not only kill pests, but also “good” bugs like ground beetles that eat pests. Beneficial bugs are more sensitive to these pesticides than the bugs that are detrimental to plants, so if the good bugs are eliminated, the bad pest population may grow. When this happens, you will spray another round of pesticides to get rid of the pests, thus creating a never-ending cycle for yourself.
Go slowly as you plant the seeds. First, add moisture to the soil where you will be planting. Lay out your seeds, and make sure that they will have enough room to grow. You should bury your seeds deep enough, usually three times their size. Be aware that some seeds need light to germinate and should be sown on top of the soil.
Have your gardening tools near you to minimize the time spent searching for them. Wear pants with multiple pockets or use a toolbox or large bucket. 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.
Add three inches of mulch to your flower beds. A thick layer of mulch will prevent weeds, reduce watering needs and fertilize your garden. Mulch also completes your garden, giving it a finished appearance.
Learn to work efficiently. Don’t spend 30 minutes searching for a tool. In addition to keeping your gardening tools in one location, you should also clean your tools after each use. You can keep your garden tools in a tool belt, or in your pockets. Another good idea is to keep them all in a bucket that you carry around with you.
Now you know a little more on how you can be a successful organic gardener. Even the best information needs to be implemented correctly, however, so be very cognizant of that fact. If you recall this advice, you can develop and hone your own techniques to create a flourishing organic garden.