How do I start my own organic vegetable garden? Garden guru Phil Dudman, contributor to ABC Organic Gardening Magazine and website, provides an excellent introduction on how and why the novice gardener can easily begin to grow organic fruit and vegetable produce.

“Millions of people the world over are discovering the joys of growing their own food, and they are choosing to do it organically”, says Phil. The question on many people’s minds is what exactly is organic gardening, and why is it so important?

Organic gardening is growing plants without the use of harmful chemicals or toxic compounds. Organic gardeners use natural alternatives such as manures and composts to feed the soil. “Healthy soil means healthy food and thus healthy people”, adds Phil. Pests and diseases are controlled in an organic garden, but never completely eradicated. It comes down to maintaining a natural balance in the garden, without using unnatural commercial products that are often toxic and usually detrimental to the garden.

So how do you get started? Phil recommends starting with a small space. Find a sunny spot in the garden, and set up a little plot about one metre by one metre. For a novice gardener herbs and salad leaves are easy to grow. If you’re unsure of any aspect, ask an experienced gardener, who will most likely love to share their knowledge. As you gain confidence, then increase the size of your plot as well as the range of plants. Start researching successful organic techniques such as biodynamics and no dig gardens, and apply what you learn to your own garden.

Another worthwhile addition to your garden is a compost bay. This will enable you to transform your organic household and garden waste into nutrient rich fertiliser to feed your organic garden.

If you don’t have any spare space, you can use pots and windowboxes to grow organic produce just as easily! Or you could apply for an allotment space with the local council, or join a community garden programme. You could even ask a friend with more garden space if you could borrow a patch of earth, and share the produce.

There is so much to be gained from this enjoyable activity, why not give it a try and see how your life is enriched by creating your own organic garden.

Filed under: Organic Farming

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