Effective Organic Methods for Fertilizing and Protecting Your Garden Without Chemicals
Organic farming is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and farmers who wish to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The abandonment of agrochemicals allows for the production of environmentally friendly products and helps maintain the health of the family.
This is reported by AgroReview
Advantages of Organic Technologies
The use of organic materials for fertilizing and protecting plants has many advantages. Firstly, it is safe for human health, as the products do not contain toxic compounds. Secondly, organic fertilizers enrich the soil with humus and positively affect its structure. Thirdly, organic farming contributes to reducing water and soil pollution, which enhances the ecological sustainability of the farm. Finally, many natural methods are more economically viable than traditional chemical means.
Natural Methods for Fertilizing and Protecting Plants
Composting is one of the most effective methods for obtaining organic fertilizer. A mixture of decomposed plant residues, food waste (excluding meat and dairy products), and manure forms compost, which can be added to the soil during planting (1–2 kg/m²) or used for mulching.
Green Manures are green fertilizers, including mustard, alfalfa, oats, peas, or soybeans. Sowing and burying green manures in the soil enriches it with nitrogen, improves the microflora, suppresses weed growth, and prevents erosion.
Biohumus (Vermicompost) is created by earthworms during the processing of organic waste. This natural fertilizer is recommended to be applied to the soil at a rate of 0.5–1 liter per square meter or used as a liquid fertilizer in a ratio of 1:10 with water.
To protect plants from diseases and pests, natural remedies are also used. Biopreparations based on bacteria and fungi, such as Trichodermin for combating root rot or bacterial insecticides (Bacillus thuringiensis) against caterpillars, help effectively protect plants.
Natural pest control methods include treating crops with infusions of garlic, onion, and wormwood to repel aphids, mites, and Colorado beetles. Additionally, planting marigolds and tagetes deters nematodes and other pests.
Among mechanical methods, the use of sticky traps for insects and manual collection of pests stands out, which is particularly effective in small plots.
Yes, but it requires a systematic approach: regular application of organic materials, crop rotation, and the use of biopreparations for prevention.
Transitioning to organic farming not only improves the quality of the harvest but also helps preserve soil fertility and the environment. A systematic approach and gradual implementation of natural methods allow for a complete abandonment of “chemicals” and achieving high yields.