Organic gardening
/ɔrˈɡænɪk ˈɡɑrdənɪŋ/
Definition
Organic gardening is a gardening method that grows plants by building soil health and managing pests, diseases, and weeds with natural and biological practices rather than most synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. It relies on inputs such as compost, mulch, cover crops, and crop rotation, and on supporting soil organisms and beneficial insects. The focus is on ecological processes in the garden, not just feeding or treating plants directly.
Use in Gardening
- Soil biology support: It often centers on feeding soil life rather than supplying quick soluble nutrients. Compost, mulch, and cover crops encourage microbes and earthworms that help release nutrients and improve soil structure.
- Nutrient release pattern: Many approved fertilizers break down gradually, so plant roots receive nutrients more slowly than with many synthetic products. This can reduce sudden flushes of soft growth and may support steadier development.
- Pest management approach: Control usually relies on prevention, monitoring, and least-toxic inputs first. Crop rotation, resistant varieties, hand removal, and habitat for beneficial insects can lower pest pressure without broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Weed and disease pressure: Mulches, spacing, sanitation, and watering at the soil line are especially important. These practices limit leaf wetness, reduce weed competition, and make disease outbreaks less likely in many garden crops.
Related Terms
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Integrated pest management (IPM)
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Organic matter
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