GROW YOUR OWN FOOD AND HERBS!!

1) Create an ecologically balanced habitat that encourages natural resistance to pests and diseases. Strive to recreate the native growth conditions of any plants you put in your garden. In other words put the right plant in the right spot! Using plants and flowers that specifically attract wildlife such as bees, humming birds, and lady bugs is a wonderful way to give your oasis a boost. Get creative! Reuse and recycle as much as possible!

2) Collect rain water and water wisely! Rain barrels, soaker hoses, and drip irrigation systems work well to get water where it needs to go. Water only in the early morning or late evening and don’t let your soil dry out too much between waterings. Avoid sprinkler systems and pay attention to the weather!

3) Compost disease free garden debris and organic, plant-based food waste. This is a very important part of sustainable living and it brings you closer to your garden. You can also use worm-composting systems!

4) Use natural predators for pesky pests such as lady bugs, nematodes, and praying mantis’. Use organic sprays only when absolutely necessary such as neem and other plant derived oils. Just because a spray is organic does not mean you should use it liberally! When you understand the life cycles and native environments of your pests and your plants you can often times prevent problems, and solve them more efficiently when they do arise. Slugs/snails don’t like moving over copper and if it’s dry enough diatomaceous earth can be useful as a desiccant. Netting, fencing, and wise planting can be useful as well!

5) Build and enrich your soil with organic matter and beneficial soil microbes. Gardner and Bloome soil amendments and Dr. Earth fertilizers both contain microorganisms that create symbiotic relationships beneficial to your plants. Make sure your soil pH is appropriate for whatever is planted in it, soil pH affects the type and amount of nutrients can be absorbed. Different plants prefer different types of soil!!

ORGANIC GARDENING

Bakerview Nursery & Garden Center 945 E. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham (360) 676-0400