When Barack Obama took office as President, one of the first things he did in the White House was to plan an organic garden to grow carrots, spinach, lettuce, and a variety of herbs and spices for his family.
The Obamas joined a fast-growing number of families who have adopted organic gardening for a healthier diet and lifestyle. They hope to set a positive example for families who are often tempted by cheaper, highly processed food. According to the National Gardening Association (www.garden.org), nearly forty percent of U.S. households with a yard or garden plan to do their own organic gardening in the future.
Reducing Pesticides and Chemicals
There are many important benefits to “green” gardening. Foremost is the absence of chemicals and pesticides. When compost, mulch, and non-toxic pest controls are utilized in gardens instead of pesticides, the amount of toxins our bodies absorb is drastically reduced. Not only does this mean healthier bodies for adults and kids, but pets and backyard plants, animals, and insects benefit as well.
Similarly, with more and more agricultural lands and farms devoted to organic produce, soil, water supplies, and livestock all benefit from the absence of harmful chemicals. Also, land which organic farmers have worked on can be planted by the next generation because the land that has been cultivated for so long is still fertile.
Organic Is Better
Overall, growing food organically is better for wildlife, causes less pollution from toxic sprays, and produces less carbon dioxide—the main global warming gas.
Whether grown in small gardens, or purchased from organic farmers, organic produce is considered by many consumers to be of higher quality and better tasting. Growing your own produce also means cutting down on money spent at the grocery store.
Any type of yard space—regardless of size—can be used for organic gardening. Even apartment and condo dwellers can grow their own organic produce on balconies and window ledges using small containers and hanging baskets.
Using Compost and Mulch
One of the most important ingredients in green gardening is organic compost. This can be produced from one’s own food wastes—or acquired from environmental groups or even city agencies for little or no cost.
Many towns and cities make free mulch and compost available to residents from clippings that are picked up during tree collections. Purchase mulch, compost and top soil in bulk from local nurseries, this way you can take what you need without collecting all those bags. Another option would be to pick up compost and mulch from community gardens or local farms. Green gardening can be both easy and fun—and an ideal way to protect the environment.
Enjoy this video on how to make compost. Sunset Magazine-How to make compost
Charles Cozic is a writer in San Diego, Calif. His blog is Cozic’s Blog
