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This is my first attempt at "organic gardening" due to health problems. I'm determined. I started by having my soil tested and then added the necessary nutrients to make it "healthy". I'm using grass clippings/straw for mulch and am being diligent at weeding. I need advice on composting.. methods, equipment, etc. Is there a good book to start? Like "Organic Gardening for Dummies?" I'm sure at some point, I'll need to deal with "critters" in my garden. I've detoured the local geese with a small fence, but I'm sure I'll have some kind of beetles, or something to get rid of. I don't want to be so overwhelmed that I just get out the "PREEN" or something, so where do I go to really get a good starting knowledge base?
Welcome! Rodale, the organization that sponsors this site, has a bookstore with lots of good books about organic gardening. It's hard to be specific without knowing where you are. Could you put your zone/area of the country in your signature?
You might want to do a search of composting here at this site, and then ask more questions after that. There are several ways to go; you can buy an enclosed bin, make or buy open bins, or (as I do) just put your compost heaps on the ground. Compost and building up your soil are really the key to organic gardening. You'll find it's actually easier (and cheaper) than using all those chemicals. And you won't nuke the planet.
Ditto what heather said--the search feature at the top of the page will help you find messages on any subject you like, including the many ways to compost and deter any pest you can think of (Someone had a recipe for a hot pepper spray to deter a determined squirrel, another one was for a tobbacco juice insect spray).
Your local library ought to have some good books on organic gardening in the gardening section too--especially look for a crayon green one 2" thick by 8" tall entitled "Rodale's All New Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening" in white letters on the spine. It has loads of info, great for beginner's and more experienced folk.
__________________________ {=^;^=} Living the good life amid the wildlife.
Posts: 881 | Location: Out in the sticks in Zone 6/Southwestern KY | Registered: November 27, 2004
There is tons of info right here. Like they said, use the search button. I've heard geese are weeders and are used to keep gardens and orchards free of weeds. Enlighten the ignorant (me) please all you people! The healthier your garden the more diversity your garden will bring. That is beneficial bugs to balance out the bad bugs. Don't poison anything! Please! It really pays off! Peace!