Why Grow Organic?

by Jenna Marshall

The term "organic" is everywhere these days When people hear it, they often think of high-priced produce, but it is now found on so much more. Fruits and veggies, of course, canned foods, beans, eggs, dairy, flowers and even clothing can be made organically. It just means that there are no chemical pesticides or fertilizers used. Simple enough.

So why grow organic? There are so many chemical products out there designed to fix all of our gardening woes, so what's so great about organic gardening? Well, here are just a couple of reasons why we should rethink what we use in the garden.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH PESTICIDES?

Let's start by taking a look at pesticides. Pesticides are poisons for bugs. That's the simplest view of it. They are intended to kill insects or disrupt their reproductive cycle. They have the same effect on wildlife and humans. If you don't believe me, read the labels. I'm sure you will find many warnings, and I've even run across a few with skull and cross bones. These are dangerous chemicals. Pesticides have been linked to numerous health problems in reproduction, respiration, digestion, neurologic disorders, and kidney function just to name a few.

Chemical fertilizers sound like a good idea, in theory. They are easily regulated - you know exactly what levels of nutrients you are getting. However, there are many problems with these chemicals. First, many of these fertilizers have acid in them. This, of course, raises the acidity of the soil. By raising the acidity, this changes the types of organisms that can live in the soil. Because of this, a plants immunity to diseases is affected. The microorganisms that live in properly balanced soil helps protect the plant's health.

Another reason is that these chemicals can kill earthworms. Why is that a big problem? Well, earthworms are a big part of what keeps the soil aerated. Without aeration in the soil, it becomes dense and has limited oxygen to plant roots.

There are hundreds of additional reasons to ditch the chemicals. No matter how careful you are to keep the chemicals where they should be, you will still be exposed. It doesn't completely wash off of fruits and vegetables. Unless peeled, you will ingest some traces of the chemical. This builds up as toxins in the liver. It can be inhaled and absorbed through the skin, so just handling plants exposed to pesticides is toxic. Fertilizers leech into the water supply. What you use in your garden affects more than just you.

If you are still not convinced, I would like to challenge you to try it. Just one container or small bed. Plant whatever you normally grow, and try it organic. Do your research and find out how to treat those common garden problems without reaching for a chemical cocktail. Notice what happens. Plants become stronger. Organisms in the soil thrive. Fruits and veggies taste better. Blooms are vibrant. It can take a little practice, but you will be glad you did!