Now that spring is here, you may be getting ready to start planting your beautiful vegetable garden. Contrary to popular belief, going organic is not a more expensive way to grow vegetables. It’s a better and healthier way to grow fresh vegetables and fruit for your family. Whether you are new to gardening or have lots of experience, there are numerous reasons why you should consider going organic with your garden this year.
Compost Better for Plants, Better for Planet
Feeding your soil by incorporating organic materials eliminates the need to rely on synthetic chemicals to fertilize your plants. This is much easier than it sounds. It can be done simply by composting. Instead of throwing away items such as vegetable peels, egg shells, coffee grounds or grass clippings, make a nutritious compost from them. This builds up your soil while reducing erosion, feeding your plant while making your soil more drought resistant.
Eliminates the Need for Pesticides, Fungicides and Herbicides
Better soil means it is less prone to harboring fungus and other diseases that can be detrimental to garden plants. It’s easier to control weeds and insects when your soil is healthier. By eliminating chemicals from your garden, you’re are not only keeping one more chemical out of your family’s diet, but you are also preventing contamination to your soil and the local water supply from chemical runoff. Wildlife, such as bees and other beneficial insects, remain safe when using organic gardening methods.
Improve Your Nutrition
By fortifying your soil with organic gardening methods, your vegetables will taste better and be healthier. A study conducted by the Soil Association found that organically grown vegetables contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Magnesium, Iron and Phosphorous.
Additional Help on Soils and What Kinds of Plants are Best for Your Area
Contact the Cherokee Master Gardener Association. Better yet, on May 28th and June 25th, the association will hold spring and summer plant sales where they will showcase locally and organically grown fauna that are native to Georgia and drought tolerant. They will be able to assist you in your plant selection and help with any questions you may have about soil and composting.