Organic horticulture is an activity that a lot of households want to do and think about, but never tackle. The thought of starting a garden can be intimidating for many people, due to the fact that it is not something a lot of people are familiar with, and it does seem complicated. However, if you keep reading, you’ll find suggestions that can help simplify organic gardening and even make it fun.
For proper optimum growth, plants require sufficient amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). More CO2 generally produces more luxurious plant growth. A greenhouse will provide the best method of providing enough CO2 for your plants. CO2 levels are usually kept high to get the best growing situation for your plants.
Stinkbugs can be a nuisance in the garden. These bugs are known to be proliferate in the cooler fall months. Stink bugs are attracted to tomatoes, beans and most fruits. If you don’t take care of them, they can decimate your garden, so it’s best to do all you can to get rid of them.
Before you plant seeds, pre-soak them for a night somewhere dark. Place some seeds in your smaller pots and add water almost to the brim. This hydrates your seeds and jump-starts their growth. This way, the seeds you have planted will have some chance of growing.
Coffee Grounds
If the soil in your garden has a high concentration of alkaline, try mixing some coffee grounds into your garden’s soil. The coffee grounds are an inexpensive way to give some acid back to the dirt. You will discover that your vegetables are more flavorful than ever before.
If your plants do not grown very tall, try buying some knee pads used for horticulture. You will end up spending a good deal of time on your knees and this can cause a lot of pain by the end of the day. Purchase a great pair of knee pads; they will provide a cushion for your knees while making gardening more comfortable.
Using pest-resistant plants or natural materials in your garden is a good way to keep pests away. Plant marigolds or onions around other vegetables to keep slugs away from them. Wood ash used as mulch helps repel pests as well when around shrubs and trees. Natural remedies, like the ones listed, will help reduce the need and usage of harsh chemical pesticides.
If your horticulture plans include pea plantings, try starting them off indoors rather than planting the raw seeds in outdoor beds. The seeds will grow better in your home if planted there first. They will also be stronger, and better equipped to resist disease and insects. When these pea plants are sturdy, you can place them outside in your garden.
Invest in a kneeling stool, and a wheelbarrow to work in the garden. Gardening can be very tough on the knees as you spend much time leaning near the ground, so a portable stool can make all the difference to your comfort. It is also normal to move heavy objects and dirt around the garden, so a wheelbarrow is something you should have.
Pick one plant to serve as your garden’s focal point. In a well designed garden you should have a focal point so that your eyes will stay there. It can be anything, but oftentimes a plant that stands out from its neighbors will do the trick.
Use about two to three inches of organic material as mulch in all of your flower beds. This will prevent weeds from growing, retain humidity, and feed your plants with the nutrients they need. A layer of mulch also creates a more attractive appearance.
Once you know more about organic gardening, getting started should not be so intimidating. You will enjoy wholesome fruits and vegetables fresh from your chemical-free garden.