Organic gardening and conventional vegetable gardening differ in pest control and fertility: organic gardening utilizes organic weed killer and organic fertilizer.

Differences between Organic Gardening and Conventional Vegetable Gardening

Organic gardening is defined as a system that excludes the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and growth regulators. Beyond that, technology and horticultural practices between conventional vegetable gardening and organic gardening production don't differ that much. The main difference is that organic gardening features compost as both mulch and organic fertilizer, and organic gardening features organic pest control and organic weed killer.

Rather than utilizing synthetic products to feed the soil, organic gardeners rely on:

1. Crop rotations

2. Crop residues

3. Animal manures

4. Legumes

5. Green Manures

6. Organic Wastes

7. Mineral-bearing rocks

Organic Gardening Pest Control (weeds, insects, etc.) Methods and Means

1. Mechanical cultivation

2. Cultural, biological and bio-rational controls (for example, compost tea, which is literally a tea made from compost and water.)

Benefits of Organic Gardening versus Conventional Vegetable Gardening

Benefits of organic gardening may include:

1. Premium price at markets

2. Reduced production costs

3. Improved gardening safety

4. Reduced environmental impact

5. A better functioning agroecosystem (For example, organic fertilizer - compost - improves soil structure, texture, and aeration and increases the soil's water-holding capacity.)

The commercial organic farming industry is regulated and organic farmers must meet certification standards. For organic compost, for example, the National Organic Standard is strict. Here is why:

Organic gardening compost or organic fertilizer often relies heavily on raw livestock manure, which can carry pathogens that pose a danger to human health. The strict rules for organic compost mixes are in place to prevent food contamination. Additionally, agricultural workers or home gardeners who handle or breathe the pathogens may be at risk.

To kill most microorganisms that are harmful to humans, the compost pile must be maintained at high temperatures (temperature between 131 and 170°F for at least three days in a static or enclosed vessel system, or at least 15 days in a windrow system, with at least five turnings.)

Packaged Organic Gardening Potting Soil and Organic Fertilizer Mixes: OMRI listed and Certified Organic

If you buy pre-packaged organic soil blends or organic fertilizer mixes, make sure it has on the label, "OMRI Listed." The Organic Materials Review Institute evaluates products and processes for the organic industry. The products they list have been reviewed and tested, and found to be consistent with the National Organic Standard's requirements. My favorite packaged mix is Black Kow® because I have used it for many years, with consistently good results. An organic product that is "certified organic" has met the regulations.

Common organic fertilizers are compost, compost tea, bat guano, fish meal, cow, horse, or chicken manure.

Additional Resources for Organic Gardening

Suite 101.com Organic Gardening Articles

Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply

Organic Gardening, the online version of the print magazine.

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Copyright May 2006 by Sally Morton.