Why I Became an Organic Gardener
My DH and I have been gardening organically for over 30 years. We had a neighbor (God rest his soul) who was an organic gardener and took the time to help a couple of newbies learn the ropes. Our oldest son had a lot food allergies and we discovered he did much better with fresh veggies and fruit from our own garden. Both my sons where teenagers before they discovered they weren't suppose to like vegetables. LOL They use to eat what ever was ripe and available right off the vine. Now they're both grown with children of their own and have their own organic gardens.
Advice for Those Interested in Trying Organic Gardening
Just DO IT, it's NOT rocket science! But be prepared, since your ability to control insect pests and diseases is not going to be the "instant fix" you may be used to after using chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Veggies and fruits are not going to be as pretty as what you see in the store. They have these items called knives, you just use those to cut out the bad spots. LOL Start your own compost bin and use the results regularly. It will take time to overcome the effects of use of chemicals on your ground, but it can be done. Use probiotics like EM-1 to help encourage the spread of soil microbes in your soil. Soil is a living thing, microbial life is critically important for good plant nutrition. If you aren't using chemicals you will see and increase in earthworms as well. Important helpers in the garden. Do try and ask for help if you don't understand. There are plenty of organic websites with experience gardeners more than willing to help you make the transition.
What I'd Do Differently
- I would get into vermicomposting a lot sooner. What a wonderful way to get rich organic fertilizer for my garden. And no worms bins do not smell, if properly taken care of. Odor problems come from over feeding the little critters. And is easily fixed by adding additional bedding. I happen to prefer shredded black and white newspaper. Works like a charm.
