Holistic lifestyles are becoming more and more popular as the organic trend starts to spread out. Living a truly lifestyle like this requires a dedicated steady supply of fresh herbs, fruits and veggies. Read these tips to get started.
You must gradually introduce your plants to changing conditions and temperatures, so you do not shock them. On the first day, put them out in sunlight for about an hour or so. Then over the next week, gradually increase the time they are in their new habitat. The plants should be prepared to move outside permanently at the end of this week.
Starting off your garden with healthy soil can be the best defense against those pesky garden bugs. Healthy plants can better ward off pests and diseases. So give your garden a kick start by beginning with a healthy batch of natural and organic soil.
Baking Soda
When powdery mildew appears on your plants, you should not rush out to purchase a costly chemical treatment. Combine baking soda with a small dollop of liquid soap and add it to water. Spray this on the plants once per week until that mildew goes away. Your plants will not be harmed by the baking soda, but the mildew will definitely not like it!
Transfer your favorite plants indoors to rescue them from the winter frosts. Try to save plants that are expensive or that are resistant enough to handle the transition. Be careful not to damage the root system as you dig up the plant, and place it in a pot.
Be diligent in your efforts to banishing weeds! Unwanted weeds fight for the same nutrients that more desirable plants do, and they also are unsightly. White vinegar can be used as a natural herbicide. White vinegar is natural, very inexpensive, and can really kill the weeds! If you don’t want to take the time to remove the weeds by hand, simply spray them with a white vinegar solution.
It is a good idea to pre-soak your seeds in a dark environment overnight. 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 will have a much better shot at survival once they are planted.
Knee Pads
It is a good idea to invest in a good pair of knee pads, made specifically for gardening. They can be very helpful when working close to the ground on low-growth plants. Your knees will take a beating if you spend a great deal of time on the ground while tending your garden. Investing in good knee pads will help cushion your knees so you are more comfortable.
Aerate and dry your plants each day. If you have excess moisture, this can attract bugs or diseases. A commonplace plant parasite is fungi. Sprays and liquids exist that are perfect for killing the fungi, but be sure you use it on the area before the fungi actually appear.
Natural materials or some other plants can be used in your garden for keeping away pests. Forming a border around your vegetable garden with marigolds or onions are ideal for repelling slugs. Mulch around the bottom of trees and shrub seedlings with wood ash to reduce unwanted infestation of pests. These are proven methods without having to use harsh chemical pesticides.
Organic horticulture is simpler if you have knowledge on the subject. Keep in mind that the tips offered here are only a few of the great things that you can learn.