In Honor of Earth Day!

So I was thinking about earth day and then again about my garden I’m about to start planting and thought what better way to celebrate Earth Day than to write about organic gardening!

Its safe to say that growing your own vegetables is easy on the pocket book, but what about the health and environmental benefits of a victory garden of your very own? A chemical free garden would be the healthiest and most environmental friendly alternative to grocery produce but in today’s world of chemical for this and another for that how easy it that to achieve? It’s possible! It just takes a little research and some tips from my great grandfather who grew the biggest tomatoes I’ve ever seen!

-Use natural fertilizers. If you don’t have a cow pasture or a compost bin you can purchase manure and compost from your local garden store. Manure, compost and peat are all great alternatives to chemical fertilizers. For best results mix them well with the soil before planting.

-Use plants to deter pests. Marigolds are great for repelling most insects and protecting tomatoes and potatoes from beetles and slugs. Planting herbs like sage, rosemary, peppermint, mint and basil can keep pesky bugs away also.

-Grass clippings or straw can be used as bedding to prevent weeds from popping up. Just be sure they are free from herbicides, pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Grass and straw will also breakdown and provide nutrients for next season’s crop.

Gardening is tough work, don’t forget the sunscreen (preferably zinc oxide), and enjoy the benefits of an organic summer for your health and the earth!