You probably already know the difference between organic and non-organic foods, and have seen your share of the organic type at your supermarket. It is typically easy to identify organic products. They’re packaged differently and usually cost a lot more. Keep reading for a variety of tips and tricks for maintaining an organic garden.
Plants that result in a larger yield should be higher on your priority list when planning the garden. A disease-resistant hybrid plant can be a good option to consider over a more traditional variety due to its tendency to produce higher yields.
Create useful rulers from your tool handles. Tools with long handles, such as a shovel or rake, are absolutely perfect for this job, and make your workload a little bit smaller. Measure the handles with a tape measure laid out in the floor. Label the distances with a permanent marker. Next time you are working in the garden, you will have a large ruler at your fingertips!
Healthy soil will be your best defense against the pests that can invade your garden. The healthier the plants you grow, the more resistant they’ll be to illness, fungus, or bugs. High-quality soil that is low on chemicals is key. It’s the first thing you should think about when planning on growing your garden.
You may be able to re-pot some plants to bring indoors for the winter. Perhaps you can save your most expensive or resistant plants. Carefully dig up the plants, using caution not to disturb the roots, then transfer into a pot.
Soil Analysis
Do a soil analysis prior to planting. For a small fee, a soil analysis can be obtained – based on that report – the soil can be properly enriched to support a vibrant garden. A lot of extension offices will offer this service and it is worth it so you know what your soil needs.
In a place that’s dark, pre-soak the seeds. Take 3-4 seeds, put them in a small jar or container, and cover them with water. This will keep seeds hydrated and help them to grow faster. The seeds will then have a greater chance at lasting and blossoming.
You can alleviate this problem by planting grasses that your cat will naturally gravitate towards. You could also place mothballs and citrus peels around your plants to keep your cat away.
Don’t mow your grass too short. Keeping grass with a little more height makes it healthier. This allows the roots to grow more deeply and makes the blades of grass more resistant to becoming dry and discolored. Short grass is more prone to getting dried out and turning brown.
You should divide irises. You can divide those overgrown clumps and increase the amount of irises you have. You can do this by simply picking up bulbous irises once the foliage has withered. The bulbs will automatically split in you hand, and will likely flower the year after being replanted. Rhizomes, however, need to be divided by using a horticulture knife. Cut new pieces from the outside and discard the old center. Every piece needs to have a minimum of one good offshoot. Replant your cuttings immediately for the best results.
You can use natural materials or other plants in your garden to keep away pests. Planting marigolds or onions around the border of your garden will repel slugs. Another way to get rid of pests is to spread wood ash at ground level around shrubs and tree plantings. These methods prevent use of harsh chemicals.
If you’re a new gardener, it is vital that you follow the instructions when it comes to your chemicals and tools. Irritation of the skin or even more serious injuries are possible if you ignore manufacturer’s directions. Prevent issues, and use your garden chemicals safely.
The water that is leftover from the steamed vegetables is great to pour over them. Add coffee grounds or tea leaves to the soil of acid-loving plants like rhododendron and gardenia. Chamomile tea is a natural way to rid your plants of a persistent fungus.
Avoid getting an infection by not allowing dirt and other chemicals to get into open wounds. A cut may become badly infected if it’s exposed to a lot of dirt or grime when you garden. The key is to use bandages capable of covering cuts in their entirety.
Get the most value from your property. Improving your landscape is one of the best ways to get a high return from your house. Certain plants could increase the value by 20%. Plants that are low in moisture and suit your environment are a good investment.
Growing your garden at home might not be the most convenient thing for you, but you will save a lot of money and always have the confidence that what you’re eating and feeding your family is as fresh and as healthy as possible. Use the tips you’ve learned here and get started on your garden today.