Does Organic Gardening Improve Soil Quality?

Published on: 24 March 2017 Last Updated on: 13 September 2024

The soil is a fundamental resource base for agricultural production systems. Besides being the main medium for crop growth, soil functions to sustain crop productivity and maintain environmental quality. Soil quality is determined by the soil’s ability to perform these functions.

Organic gardening means avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides without necessarily implying that plants are left to fend for themselves. Therefore, it is Merely creating the best possible environment for plant growth using biological processes that create a supply of nutrients to the plants and maintain the structural and biological integrity of the soil.

Organic farming provides sites for nutrient retention by adding compost, animal and green manures in soil. In the process, soil nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium among others are added to the soil.

Leading gardening professionals such as Tree Service Deltona point out that organic farming can help promote sustainability and improve crop productivity. It can also allow helping create an ecosystem that is not dependent on artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals that ultimately end up getting into the composition of the vehicles.

Several natural soil enhancers used in organic gardening include:

Humus: This basically refers to completely decomposed, stable organic matter. Organic materials are decomposed over a long period of time. Humus has important functions in soil, particularly in enhancing soil structure and water-holding capacity

Growing of cover crops: A wide range of cover crops can be grown to enhance soil building properties. Mixtures of cover crops may be the best way to maximize soil building properties. When allowed to decompose, these cover crops have a large amount of biomass that when released into the soil have benefits. Examples of cover crops include leguminous grasses

Compost: Compost is one of the most stable forms of crop nutrients and is an effective means of building soil organic matter, it is also rich in carbon particularly when produced with carbon-rich materials.

Application of compost or manure is an effective means of building up soil organic matter, feeding a wide range of beneficial micro-organisms that aerate the soil and maintain soil PH levels.

A PH of 7 is neutral while values below 7 show increasing acidity and those above 7 show increasing alkalinity. When natural manures are used, the amount of soil PH is naturally maintained since artificial fertilizers add certain elements to the soil such as zinc and copper which when their levels are high become very toxic to the soil.

Through organic farming, soil organic matter is increased thus making the soil to be healthy and its quality also increased. The Use of natural manures aids in moisture retention within the soil, thus ensuring that the crops being grown in the farming process don’t lose water to several biological processes such as evaporation. This is because the amount of water being retained by the soil is more than the lost amount by several factors. This is especially vital in sandy soils, which have low water retention capabilities due to their well-drained nature.

Building soil quality by the use of organic methods helps increase the soil’s resilience. This is the ability to overcome stress or to bounce back after being disturbed. Crops grown in resilient soils have a better ability to withstand extreme conditions such as drought, flood, extremely high temperatures or pest infection.

Using a case study of a carrot sprout, which is mainly grown in home gardens and known for their sweet taste, we will notice that they are hard to grow and they thrive in areas of minimal artificial fertilizers and thus would do best in organic gardens that use natural means of soil improvement. They would also be best in chilly aquatic conditions considering the amount of moisture needed during their growth to full maturity.

You may have asked yourself this question – what do carrot sprouts look like. Well, carrot sprouts look like grass and can easily be mistaken for weeds in a garden.

Carrots are best grown in sandy soils since the sandy soil is well-drained in contrast to the high amounts of moisture needed to grow the carrots. The use of organic methods of enhancing the soil moisture retention will ensure that the conditions are similar to that of the best aquatic chiller thus favoring the growth of the carrots even in well-drained soils.

The growth of carrots is a good indication of how organic gardening is beneficial to the improvement of soil quality and also in ensuring that the conditions for the growth of several crops are successful, unlike when artificial enhancers such as fertilizers are used.

Advantages of organic gardening

Stabilizes the soil with time by repairing the soil composition and restoring the soil structure so as to ensure its properties are retained
Improve with time by using adequate and adaptive techniques to restore key soil functions
Increase productivity since a number of nutrients provided by the soil is adequate for crop growth
Provides healthy food supply since the crop produced is by natural means and artificial enhancers are not in the components of the crop which is being grown.

Organic gardening, therefore, does improve the quality of the soil.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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Enhancing Spaces With Greenery: The Art Of Plant Styling In Interior Design

In the dynamic realm of design, a captivating trend has taken root that resonates globally and within the context of interior design. The art of plant styling, a practice that breathes life into spaces by introducing lush greenery, has found its place within the landscape of interior design. From the serene homes of Singapore to bustling commercial establishments, the fusion of nature and interior design in Singapore has paved the way for a new aesthetic that redefines spaces. This article looks into the profound impact of this transformative approach, exploring its role in shaping ambience, fostering well-being, and enhancing visual appeal within Singapore's interior design framework. Singapore combines innovative interior design with abundant urban greenery, creating harmonious living spaces that blend functionality and nature seamlessly. The city's commitment to sustainable architecture and lush landscapes enhances the overall quality of life. Integrating Nature's Serenity: Plant styling represents an endeavour to transcend the conventional boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The gentle sway of leaves, the soothing rustle of branches, and the play of light on foliage create a captivating tableau of serenity. These natural elements have the remarkable ability to not only enrich the visual aesthetics of a space but also to imbue it with an intangible sense of calm, offering a haven of tranquillity amid the modern whirlwind. Foliage As Functional Art: Beyond its artistic significance, the incorporation of greenery within interior design holds functional virtues that are equally captivating. Indoor plants act as dynamic purifiers, diligently working to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen. This symbiotic exchange is a testament to the remarkable synergy between the natural world and human habitation, resulting in spaces that are not only visually inviting but also remarkably conducive to holistic well-being. Evolving Design Aesthetics: The interior design canvas is ever-evolving, with aesthetics that shape-shift in response to cultural shifts and design movements. The beauty of plant styling lies in its ability to seamlessly adapt to these evolving aesthetics, transcending the boundaries of design trends. Whether it's the sleek lines of minimalism, the free-spirited eclecticism of bohemian design, or the raw industrial appeal, greenery finds a way to weave its verdant magic, breathing life into these aesthetics and fostering a harmonious coexistence between the designed and the natural. The Art Of Selection: Choosing the right plants to adorn interior spaces is akin to curating a living gallery. Each plant chosen is a testament to an intricate interplay of factors – from light availability and humidity levels to aesthetic preferences and maintenance commitments. The heart of this endeavour is striking the perfect equilibrium between aesthetic allure and the practicality of plant care, resulting in a tapestry of green that enchants the senses and enhances the atmosphere. Nurturing Connection: Plant styling is more than an aesthetic venture; it's an intimate connection with nature that thrives within one's living space. Nurturing indoor plants instils a sense of responsibility and mindfulness as one tends to the growth, well-being, and seasonal changes of these living companions. This connection fosters a deeper appreciation for the resilience of nature, weaving the threads of the natural world into the fabric of daily life. Creating Focal Points: In the tapestry of interior design, plants serve as masterful focal points, guiding the eye and punctuating spaces with living accents. Majestic ferns, cascading ivy, or sculptural cacti effortlessly take centre stage, captivating the observer with their unique forms and textures. These focal points transform mundane corners into captivating nooks, where the play of light and shadow on foliage tells a visual story that evolves throughout the day. The Versatility Of Planters And Containers: The vessels that cradle these botanical wonders are as integral to the design narrative as the plants themselves. The design spectrum of planters and containers spans rustic terracotta pots to sleek, modern ceramics and even repurposed vessels that breathe new life into forgotten objects. This versatility extends the creative possibilities of plant styling as containers become an extension of the design language, introducing new textures, colours, and forms. Integrating Plant Styling In Commercial Spaces: The allure of plant styling isn't confined to residential spaces alone; it has also made its indelible mark on the commercial landscape. Forward-thinking offices, elegant hotels, and dynamic retail environments have embraced the verdant touch of greenery. The infusion of plants within these spaces goes beyond aesthetics, fostering employee well-being, enhancing customer experiences, and creating an environment that promotes creativity and productivity. Symbiosis Of Light And Greenery The interplay between light and plants is a symphony that defines the heart of plant styling. Plants thrive in well-lit spaces, where sunlight cascades over leaves, casting intricate patterns and dynamic shadows. This symbiotic relationship between light and greenery transforms interiors into living canvases, where the ever-changing dance of illumination narrates an evolving story. Conclusion: As the chapters of interior design in Singapore continue to unfold, the integration of plant styling emerges as a timeless motif that marries the lush beauty of nature with the precision of design. This artistic symbiosis transcends aesthetics, creating spaces that exude tranquillity, health, and elegance. From the serene corners of private homes to the innovative interiors of commercial spaces, plant styling infuses its magic, redefining the essence of interior design in Singapore. In this ever-evolving narrative, the fusion of greenery and design remains a constant reminder that the beauty of nature is an eternal source of inspiration. As interior design in Singapore continues to shape urban environments, the allure of plant styling serves as a testament to the enduring power of nature's splendour within the tapestry of design. Read Also: Your own space: decor ideas for your private place to relax Home Improvement Hacks to Add to Your Space TV Wall Mount Ideas for Living Room

Five Easy Steps When Cleaning Your Mattress

It is highly important to clean your mattress on a regular basis. This is because mattresses could become a breeding ground for dust mites, stains, and bad odor. None of which we would want in our homes. Since we spend about a third of our lives sleeping, it’s only proper that the mattress we’re sleeping on is clean. But mattress cleaning may prove to be an intimidating task, especially if you do not know what to do. Do you wash it or dry it out? What cleaning agents will you use? Are you using the right cleaning techniques? The questions are endless – and overwhelming, too. After all, no one would want to damage an expensive mattress. To help you out, we have compiled a few tips to make the mattress cleaning experience a lot less daunting. Read on and find out. Suck Up the Dirt : Vacuuming your mattress is perhaps one of the easiest ways available to clean it. It may also be one of the most convenient ways. First remove your pillow top, sheets, pillows, and blankets. After doing so, you may then proceed to vacuum your mattress. This will: Remove any crumbs that may have accumulated from late-night snacking sessions or from movie marathons. Take off any pet hair that may have stuck to the mattress after letting your pet sleep in the same bed as you. Remove any dust that has formed since the last time you took the time to clean your mattress. Nearly every house would have a vacuum cleaner for general cleaning purposes. If yours does not, then consider getting one, as it is quite a good investment. It makes cleaning not only the rooms of your house a breeze, but it is a big help in cleaning your mattress as well, keeping it as comfortable as possible. Easy Spot Cleaning : The next thing you can do to clean your mattress is to spot clean it. The type of stains present on a mattress will vary from person to person. Likewise, the best ways to clean these stains vary as well. Here is a quick list of what you should use when you get an unsightly stain on your mattress: Water: Water is a safe bet. It is cheap and safe to use on absolutely everything. It is good as an immediate treatment to prevent stains from setting. It also lessens the effect of dyes but is not 100% effective. Detergents: These can be used for most situations, especially for grease stains. Commonly, people have detergents for laundry and dishwashing at their disposal. You must be careful with the latter, as it could damage the fabric on the mattress. Salt: This one can be found in almost every household. It is effective in removing sweat or deodorant stains. It is also good in lessening red wine and bloodstains. Vinegar or Lemon Juice: These two are amazing tools for removing coffee and tea stains. People have also found them effective against grass stains as well as tape and glue residue. Bleach: Bleach is effective in removing dyes. This means that it is a good bet for make-up and grass stains. This should be used in moderation, as it can damage more delicate mattresses. People also rely on a combination of hydrogen peroxide, liquid detergent, and baking soda. Simply spray the mixture on a stain and spot clean away. Another easy combination is that of lemon juice and salt. Spread this on a stain and leave it on for at least half an hour. Afterward, just wipe it off. Remove Foul Odors : The third step we suggest for the mattress-cleaning process is deodorizing. There are multiple, easy ways for you to do this. Air Dry: Perhaps the easiest and most convenient way to do when you want to deodorize. Simply leave it in the heat of the sun for a couple of hours. This will remove any foul odors and naturally kill bacteria as well. Baking Soda: Simply sprinkle this stuff on your mattress and leave it be for a couple of hours. It is a natural deodorizer that also kills germs. After it has done its job, just vacuum off the excess on the mattress. Lavender: A bit of an extra step, but has proven to be worth it. It does not only remove unwanted odors from your mattress, it also adds a relaxing scent that will help you get a better night’s sleep every night. While each one of these suggestions is effective in their own right, doing all three would help you achieve better sleep. It may take some more effort on your part, but it will all be worth it. Clean Your Sheets : Washing your sheets is another important step in this process. It’s not enough that your mattress is clean; your sheets should be, too. It is always a good idea to clean your sheets regularly as this would prevent stains from seeping through to the mattress. This will also remove unsightly stains and foul odors. Together with a clean mattress, this will help you wake up more relaxed and energized. When doing this, it is important to remember the following : The washing machine is your best friend when it comes to washing bulky sheets. A dryer would also help deodorize and kill bacteria with its heat. Read care labels so that you do not cause damage to your sheets especially on sensitive fabrics. Some detergents are very strong and may actually do more harm than good. Some may even make the stain spread instead of removing it. It would not hurt to use a scented detergent to wash sheets. Just know how much and which brand to use. As mentioned before, lavender is a good scent for some more peaceful sleep. It is recommended that sheets be washed at least once a week. If this is not possible, then at least make sure to change them. Protect Your Mattress : Lastly, we would recommend you to protect your mattress. A lot of manufacturers offer mattress covers nowadays. They help prevent future stains from getting on the mattress itself. Not only that, some of them even make the bed more comfortable. As an added bonus, they can easily be thrown in the washing machine with the sheets. And On That Note… While this task may seem like it is too much, it really is not. This also has a lot more benefits than just removing stains. If you haven’t tried doing it and you’re scared of trying, ask someone who can help you out. Additionally, a wealth of information is available on the internet. Sometimes, the answers to your questions are a mere mouse click away. Cleaning your mattress on a regular basis is important. This would help keep germs at bay and remove foul odors. This will also increase your mattress’s longevity. Your mattress will keep you comfortable for as long as possible. All of this would lead to you getting a better night’s sleep in the long run. Take the first step today and you will thank yourself later. You invested quite well on that mattress; make that investment well worth it. Take good care of your mattress and it will take good care of you. Read More : Natural ways to get rid of flea in your lawn. Home Hacks: Stuff You Can Clean in One Hour or Less.

DIY Ways to Control Pests in Your Garden

Pests can be a menace and a mood killer. They dampen your spirits of developing a beautiful garden with their destructiveness. Many gardeners make frequent visits to the stores to buy insecticides to try and save their gardens. But did you know your home is full of natural insecticides that you could use to control the pest? Several items that you use in your home can also be used to control pests in the garden. So, if you are tired of the frequent visit to the stores or don’t have the time, here are several home items and products you can use to control pests in your garden. DIY Ways to Control Pests in Your Garden: One Hot Pepper Spray: Mix one gallon of water and about three spoons of hot pepper; if you are using fresh peppers, chop about ten peppers. Simmer the mixture or about 15 minutes and then let the mixture settle for 2 hours. Add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture. The soap helps the mixture acquire a sticky solution that can easily adhere to the plants. Garlic-Mint Insect Spray: To make this homemade pesticide, blend some mint leaves with garlic gloves. Add cayenne pepper and dishwashing soap. Boil the mixture and let it settle for 12hours. It should be ready to chase the bugs away. Apple Cider Vinegar Fruit Fly Trap: Flies are irritant and spread diseases very fast. Instead of waiting until it’s morning to buy some bug spray, you can easily make a homemade fly trap using basic kitchen products. Fill a bottle with apple cider vinegar and add a few pieces of chopped apple. The bottle top should be funneled shaped or have a shaker that allows the flies to get in but restrict them from easily getting out. Coffee Grounds: Do not throw away used coffee grounds if you have a pest problem in your house. Despite making you a cup of coffee, coffee grounds can be used as homemade pesticides. If there is an infestation of ants in your garden, place the coffee grounds in the spot they are originating from. Coffee grounds are fatal to many species of ants. Coffee grounds can also be used to control bugs, snails, and slugs. Eggshells: If a population of slugs and snails are wreaking havoc on your recently planted seedlings, you can easily win the war with eggshells. Eggshells make the ground rough, and the snails find it challenging to slither. Crash eggshells into tiny pieces and then spread the pieces on the ground. The shells also add value to your garden by adding calcium and other minerals to the soil when they degrade. Dust Mite Oil Repellent: You can easily make a pesticide to control mites and aphids that invade your home and garden with some few basic home items. To do this, mix either lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, clove or rosemary oil with water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Mites and aphids hate the smell of this mixture and will stay away from the sprayed area. You can add lemongrass and basil to repel lice and fleas as well. Egg Deer Repellent: Yes, a deer is also a pest. They can be a big problem for your garden, especially if you live near game reserves. However, you can keep the deer away from your plants by using a mixture of eggs and water. Mix several eggs with water and blend the mixture until it forms a solution. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and then spray the solution on the leaves of your plants. The deer will be repelled by the smell and will stay away from your garden. Bananas and Tin Foil: Aphids are some of the most destructive pests in the garden. They can easily destroy a whole garden if they are not controlled. It is one of the best ways to Control Pests. To control aphids collects banana peels and chop them up into small pieces. Place the peels under the soil around the base of the plants. Aphids are repelled by the peels, and the peels add nutrients to the soil when they decompose. Foil can also be used to chase way aphids. The foil reflects sun rays to the underside of the leaves when placed at the base of the plants. The heat and light will chase away the destructive pests. Some people might wonder, “what if I meet banana spiders while spraying the garden?” Well, the best thing to do is to leave them alone. Banana spiders are pest controllers and will help you reduce pests in your garden. Majority of banana spiders are harmless to humans. Pests should no longer be a big problem if you use the home remedies above. Frequent visits to the store to buy pesticides will also be a thing of the past. Read Also: What You Should Expect From A Pest Control Visit 5 Tips To Keeping Animals Away From Your Garden 5 Essential Tips To Designing A Beautiful Front Yard Garden

Does Organic Gardening Improve Soil Quality?

Several natural soil enhancers used in organic gardening include:

Advantages of organic gardening

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Abdul Aziz Mondol

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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Enhancing Spaces With Greenery: The Art Of Plant Styling In Interior Design

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Does Organic Gardening Improve Soil Quality?

Several natural soil enhancers used in organic gardening include:

Advantages of organic gardening

Share this Article

Top Expert Tips for a Stunning Condo Interior!

How To Make Your Home Look Like A Splendid Hotel?

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

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