Organic Gardens Methods and Techniques

Organic gardens are rising in popularity as more gardeners look to adopt the eco-friendly techniques

Over recent years the popularity and benefits of organic gardens have become mainstream as more consumers and gardeners demand a healthier and more natural alternative to traditional gardening techniques.  As a result, many landscape designers are being asked to include organic gardens or techniques into many individuals’ private garden areas, along with the growing demand in the commercial industry.

There are several factors that are influencing this trend towards cleaner and more natural techniques with the two most obvious being the health benefits of organic products and the widespread environmental benefits which has become a primary concern for many eco-conscious consumers.

Basically when talking of organic foods, is generally understood that it has been produced according to certain production standards. So when talking about organic gardening this refers to the gardens raised not using any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides on the plants, with more of a wholistic view taken of the gardening process with consideration given to the plants, soil, insects and water supply. Basically it is about keeping and maintaining a natural balance with these elements for maximum results.  This means no use of insecticides, pesticides or other damaging chemicals with only natural fertilizers and soil compositions to be used, with the soil in these organic gardens being complimented with compost made from leaves, grass, manure and similar food scraps.  

This means that there is no use, or at least very limited use of, polluting elements making it highly popular with both private gardeners for their won use and commercial farmers who are experiencing a boom in sales for their organic produce.  

When it comes to organic gardening, it is important to understand that there are a number of different systems that a person can use that harness different farming systems and specific techniques based on their gardening approach.

Biodynamic farming – is the method of organic gardening that focuses on the individual organisms within one garden, using homeopathic composts to target the holistic development and interrelationship of the main elements within the garden, namely the soil, plants, animals as a self-nourishing system.  

No-till farming – is a form of organic gardens whereby the soil is not disturbed through tillage over the course of growing crops during several years. Obviously more appropriate for commercial organic gardens, the no-till techniques allows for greater water in the soil and less soil erosion.  One negative is that it may require increased herbicide usage.

Biointensive farming - is an organic agricultural system focusing on maximum produce results from the minimum amount of area possible, while simultaneously improving the soil. Great for long term sustainability on small scale commercial farms.

Of course when it comes to individual or personal gardens, becoming organic can be taken in stages or processes with there being other methods a gardener can take to make their garden more eco-friendly without committing to full organic. What this means is using organic process to supplement an existing garden such as composting or vermicomposting. These are easy ways to adopt some organic practices while also providing the best organic fertilizers and soil conditioner for any garden.

Basically what organic gardening comes down to is the responsibility of caring and giving back to the garden without any detriment during the garden process. Organic produce especially is well supported in its use of natural techniques with many gardeners now adopting such organic and natural methods for their own personal gardens. Organic gardening is able to keep a garden productive and healthy with maximum results.