Organic horticulture has become more popular with increased concern about the effects of fertilizers and chemicals on the environment, as well as overall health. Organic horticulture is also cheaper; you don’t have to spend as much money on tools and equipment. This article will provide some great tips for organic horticulture.
Before you plant anything in your garden, have the soil checked. A soil analysis is inexpensive and can be used to figure out which nutrients should be added to provide a healthy garden environment. Many offices of Cooperative Extension will do a soil analysis, and it is important to know how to improve soil so that all crops can grow in it.
A certain amount of CO2 is necessary for plants to maximize their growth potential. In general, higher amounts of CO2 are related to better plant growth. A greenhouse will provide plants with an environment rich in carbon dioxide. CO2 levels are best kept high, in order to provide optimal growing conditions for your plants.
Grow some wheat grass or catnip for your cat to eat instead. It may also work to add citrus peelings or mothballs to the soil of the plants, because the odor is unpleasant to cats.
When mowing your lawn do not cut it as short as possible. If you leave a bit more height, the grass roots will get deeper, making your lawn stronger. When you cut the grass too short, the roots are often not deep enough, which causes your lawn to have dry patches of brown, discolored grass.
For areas with high alkaline, mix coffee grounds into the soil. This is a simple way to replenish your soil with acid. This solution will make the vegetables you grow healthier and more flavorful.
Make sure you protect any tender deciduous shrubs. Cold weather is very hard on these tender shrubs, and potted shrubs should be shielded and protected. Try to tie the tops all together and cover them with a sheet, large piece of cloth, or blanket. This method works better than covering your bushes in plastic, allowing air to circulate and preventing rotting.
Get a wheelbarrow and a kneeling stool to work in your garden. It’s rough on your knees to spend lots of time on the ground kneeling or squatting. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a portable, lightweight garden stool on hand. Horticulture also usually requires that you transport heavy loads, such as dirt or mulch, and a wheelbarrow will make this much easier to do.
Start using these tips to grow your own organic food and help preserve the environment. You will also see more animals in your garden, because organic gardens are more attuned to nature.