Introduction

“The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.”
- Gertrude Jekyll


My home is the most important space of my life. It is the root where my family originate as the first social nucleus from which it develops and prepares to go out into the world and coming back constantly, thus increasing the importance of generating quality internal and external spaces. So far, I’ve been able to build in on gardening as the art of creating these spaces, and it accompanies architecture, since they are a complement to any construction. That said, I know I’m not alone in this.

We cannot underestimate the importance of having plants in the home because they refresh the environment, protect the soil from erosion, enrich us with oxygen, recreate life, give us peace, shade and create spaces for social coexistence either with the family or with our environment, and what better if all these benefits are planned and gardens are created in as many places as possible.

When growing up, one major motivation that I always enjoyed reading about gardening was the work of the Italian humanist Bartolomeo Taegio. I was particularly mesmerized by how he characterized the rustic garden as the “third nature” in the 16th century. He wrote in a letter in 1541: “When nature and art are integrated, they are elevated to a level of creativity, reaching a level equivalent to art itself, and the combination of the two produces a third nature.”

The so-called first nature, as opposed to gardens, refers to areas that have never been touched by humans, such as mountains, oceans, deserts, etc., that are pure and maintain their original form; the second nature refers to landscapes, fields, arable land, etc. It is the place that has been intervened and transformed by human beings.

Different from the roughness of the first nature and the purely practical pursuit of transforming nature (the second nature), the garden reflects a pursuit of beauty and harmony. It transcends the singularity of the first two and is elevated to an aesthetic characteristic that only humans have. The first nature has only truth, not beauty. Only through the processing of art can nature become beautiful in the eyes of people. The meaning of the garden is to keep the ideal of looking forward to a better world alive.

It not only expresses the nostalgia of human beings for things that have been realized, but also expresses people’s desire for things that have not yet been realized. The natural garden undoubtedly satisfies the deepest need rooted in human nature, that is, the need to spread, communicate, and leave certain thoughts and feelings for future generations.

That takes us to giving an answer to this – what is organic gardening?

Simply put, organic gardening means making a strong commitment to nature. It means opting for an ecological approach that respects the environment and the gardener then adopts a whole new way of gardening by changing his/her.. habits.

The objective is therefore to be in tune with nature. For this purpose, it is necessary to ignore aggressive products such as pesticides which are harmful not only to “Mother Nature” but also to Man. The eco-gardener develops biodiversity and must not chase garden companions (birds, hedgehogs, butterflies, bees, etc.) who make their contribution.

The benefits of organic gardening

Adopting eco-gardening means first of all knowing your garden and its environment perfectly. Everything is important in the practice of eco-gardening and it is necessary to know the different elements to form a perfect harmony between living beings: the type of soil, the climate, the plants, insects, animals, the seasons … .

It is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the space to determine the way in which the soil will be worked and the way in which it will be watered and fertilized. Plants in excellent health are much more resistant to diseases and pests and therefore require a minimum of maintenance and intervention by the gardener.

Organic gardening also involves good observation of the garden in order to undertake preventive measures. The interventions of the eco-responsible gardener must be manual and natural. Sure, fruits and vegetables may be smaller in size or the harvest may be less plentiful, but the results are worth it!

Having said that, it is about being well in phase with nature and having a sense of observation while showing common sense. To succeed in this ecological approach, it is necessary to have a minimum of knowledge in gardening without being an expert in the matter. This subsequent chapters of book, however, provide great, simple tips and advice.

Over time and with the seasons, the garden and vegetable patch become healthier, more beautiful and also more productive. The crops produce healthy fruits and vegetables that are good for the environment and great for your health.

I adapted this organic approach thanks to the numerous studies I conducted on biodynamic agriculture which strongly motivated me to try to apply these healthy and fruitful principles to gardens as well.

Alienated from industrial society, over the years, man has lost contact with nature, forgetting the beneficial flows that came from being in direct contact with the earth. There are many positive aspects of having an organic garden which, in addition to being pleasing to the eye, also has a high therapeutic value transmitting positive energy to those who experience it.

An organic garden is the most natural and safest supermarket you can find. Simply, because you have cultivated it yourself. If you already have a piece of land where you can sow your vegetables, all you have to do is try to become a small farmer. If, on the other hand, you live in a condominium, you can always find an urban vegetable garden or a shared garden not too far from your home.

This is not a new duty towards the environment. It can become a relaxing hobby and give you a lot of satisfaction, including eating vegetables that you have grown yourself. Of course, however, without pesticides and chemical fertilizers. So, let's see some of what you need to start giving away your green space:
1. A suitable place
2. No fertilizers, yes compost
3. Use organic seeds
4. Mulching
5. Irrigation

• A suitable place
As I told you before, not everyone is lucky enough to have a garden or a piece of land that they can use at will. If you are also one of the majority of people who live in an apartment in the city, you will have to find different solutions to set up your garden.

In large cities there are urban gardens, spaces that the Municipality or an association make available for anyone who wants to start growing their own vegetables. But if you already know that the distance will make you abandon the venture immediately, you can start sowing some seedlings on your balcony.

• No fertilizers, yet compost
In your organic garden, fertilizers and chemical fertilizers are absolutely banned. They pollute, impoverish the soil and endanger biodiversity. This doesn't mean you can't help your seedlings grow stronger.

Indeed, you can even do it without spending a euro, but using the organic waste that you would normally throw in the waste bin. It is called home compost and it is a real natural fertilizer. You can create a composter using wooden crates for fruit and vegetables, or a fairly tightly meshed wire mesh.

• Use organic seeds
The seeds, especially if your garden is at the beginning, you will have to buy them in a specialized store. So make sure that these too come from plants grown according to organic farming. They are quite easily found in nurseries and will also be more likely to grow without the use of chemicals.
As you become more experienced in the care of your garden, you can use the seeds produced by your own vegetables , or you can agree with other people who share your passion and exchange the different varieties of plants.
When you sow, then, remember that each vegetable must follow a specific calendar and linked to the season of the year. You can ask the manager of the nursery where you made your purchases directly, collect information on each type of plant or consult the sowing calculator.
Install a water tank, prepare the growing areas, stir your compost heap, crush the branches, mulch, sow, plant, water, harvest ... The vegetable garden requires your attention at different times of the year.

Thanks to a design, it will be as economical as possible, but some actions cannot be done without you. Doing the right thing at the right time is a matter of observation, but also of planning. This is why you cannot do without time for reflection to organize your year in the vegetable garden.
To guarantee the success of your crops, you must develop your management tool . Its role is to guide you throughout the year by giving you the benchmarks you need. It may contain the following information:
- the list of vegetables you want to grow with their sowing and transplanting dates;
- an occupation plan for the cultivation areas for each month, taking into account the associations and successions of the crops;
- a month-by-month calendar with all the actions to be carried out;
- the necessary equipment.
Take advantage of winter to take the time to think about all this , warm and warm around a cup of tea. A sheet and a pencil, and your vegetable garden comes to life.
• Mulching
A term that you may never have heard, but with which you will have to become familiar if you want to protect your new organic garden . With mulch refers to the technique of covering the ground with the material to protect it from the elements and prevent the growth of weeds . You can use bark shavings, straw, grass clippings, dry leaves or even put some tiles to create paths between crops.

• Irrigation
The human being should drink about one and a half liters of water a day. As for plants, however, each has its own needs. Not only that, but during their life they meet different needs : as soon as they are planted they require more nourishment to grow, in the same way when they begin to bear the first fruits they will need a lot of energy.

But too much water makes the soil too wet and leaves the field open for the proliferation of fungi and molds . One trick is to fill an irrigation hose with small holes on the side and spread it out on the ground, close to the roots of the plants . In this way, a little water will come out at a time and will be absorbed immediately.

This particular method, which incorporates the concept of the vegetable garden and the functional garden, helps people to reconnect with nature and the earth. The organic gardening is a source of health and wellbeing and aims to make people understand how our well-being is tied to the cycle of the earth and the importance of living in a healthy environment.

This book is a meeting place for beginners, novices, experts and for anyone who decides to take their first steps towards the world of organic gardening. Through this space, my mission is to inform and update interested parties on how to cultivate and create a green environment in full respect of nature and the cycle of the seasons.

Starting to design an organic garden is not impossible but it is necessary to foresee many variables given by the natural cycle of nature. By reading this book, you will be able to learn the “secrets” of organic gardening and you will have the opportunity to immediately test yourself in the creation of your personal biological garden!

Chapter 1: What is Organic Gardening

Nowadays, the term "organic" is used a lot. In most cases, the subject is related to food and the vegetable garden. In simpler terms, organic cultivation could be described as cultivation in harmony with nature. In particular, we must plant by banning the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Because these products disrupt and destroy the balance of the ecosystem.
After 1990, standards began to be established for foods that could be categorized as “organic”. Then, the use of the name reached the rest of the world. Now, local or imported products all use this qualifier.
New programs have subsequently emerged. In addition, we created an entity responsible for confirming that agricultural products labeled of organic origins. They must authenticate the farms completing the conditions. The goal is to have the use of the term certified by the State or an accredited private body.
In the majority of cases, non-organic products contain elements that are harmful to the body. However, organic or not, the choice of the type of gardening remains a personal choice. But, you have to keep in mind that organic products guarantee you totally healthy food. Plus, practicing organic gardening can be fun.
Organic gardening is more than just avoiding pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. It's all about observing the processes of nature. Then the goal is to imitate them in your garden as best as possible.
I. Organic gardening is a long learning curve
First, the most important way to find your way is to know the composition of the soil. Afterwards, you have to bring the other materials that it needs, in relation to its future use. Organic gardening simply talks about how “feed the soil and not the plant”. To nourish the soil, one must restore the resources that the garden will need, by adding organic matter.
This includes adding compost, and possibly growing cover crops. These are known to form what is called green manure. It is an excellent natural fertilizer. Produced by the aerobic decomposition of organic matter, compost is a soil rich in microorganisms and nutrients. You can also use it as a regeneration additive.
Nevertheless, each gesture must respect the plants. For example, if it is necessary to make the soil clayey or more sandy, do not hesitate. If necessary, you should also put mulch on the beds of your garden.
The garden itself is the source of many of the ingredients in compost, including grass clippings. The same is true for plant waste and shredded leaves during the fall season. You can also add kitchen waste to your compost. To mention, we can incorporate vegetable waste, fruit peels, and eggshells. Strange as it sounds, coffee grounds and dead plants are excellent regeneration additives. Among other things, you can use chicken, cow or horse manure if you wish.
In addition, dog or cat droppings should not be used. Leftover dairy products or meat should also be avoided at all costs. The reason is that they contain unwanted pathogens, which can attract parasites.
II. Undoubtedly, the products depend on the soil
Adding compost to the garden results in healthier soil. Then, it will produce healthy fruits and vegetables. Eating produce in chemical-free soil means a healthier population. It goes without saying that plants get their nutrients from the soil, and rich soil will help plants thrive.
However, making the decision on the right species to plant in the right place is also part of organic gardening. This means that specific plants are adapted to each region, and also to the conditions of your garden. You have to make the right choice so that your plants do not need a lot of special attention to be able to grow.
With all your attention, a water-loving plant can survive in a hot, dry place. However, she will be constantly stressed. Plants that are not under stress are better prepared to resist insect infestations. However, this condition does not in any way mean that your plants will not be damaged.
III. Some insects are your friends
Organic gardeners generally tolerate a certain amount of pest damage. For them, it is all part of a natural system that forms flora and fauna, even insects. If you plant large areas of a single crop, the bedbugs' life will be easier. So, it is better to plant different species of plants between them.
In any case, you have to get to know your plants. Many organic gardeners find that they can keep damage to an acceptable level. Only by regularly examining their plants, they can detect the warning signs of problems. For example, potato plantations can be defoliated by larvae of the Colorado potato beetle.
On the one hand, beneficial insects, like ladybugs, are predators that eat the eggs or larvae of harmful insects. In particular, aphids are one of them. And when the two species are confronted in one place, it creates a beautiful natural balance.
IV. Organic gardening is perfect
On the other hand, the organic gardener should be aware of seasonal insect infestations. In particular, the technique is akin to anticipation. You can use other defenses like netting to prevent moths from laying eggs. To capture airborne pests, some use sticky traps or collars. Aluminum foil that is spread at the base of plants is another protection system. It is used to prevent insects from reproducing, cutworms and the like. If all other methods fail, then organic gardeners will have to use some deterrent. It is obvious that these techniques do not harm the environment or other living beings, quite the contrary.
Caution is required, because we must not forget that some caterpillars become pretty butterflies. To get rid of pests, you can also use horticultural oil. Sometimes all it takes is a good jet of water and you're good to go.
Organic food is taking the world by storm. Every year, more and more products with the coveted "organic" label appear on the shelves of grocery stores and more and more people are choosing to buy only organic foods, especially products. But what exactly does organic mean? And how are organic and non-organic foods different? Read on to learn more about whether to buy and grow organic or non-organic plants.
ORGANIC PLANTS VS. NON-ORGANIC PLANTS
From the day organic gardening began, there has been a heated debate about its benefits, with sacred views on both sides. This book is not intended to prove or disprove either argument - its purpose is simply to set forth some of the facts to help readers make their own decision. Ultimately, whether you choose to buy, grow and eat organically is entirely up to you.
a. What is the difference between organic and non-organic?
Organic has a slightly different definition when applied to different things. For seeds and plants, they are free of genetic engineering, pesticides, irradiation, or synthetic fertilizers, etc. Organic products come from these plants and organic meats come from animals that have only eaten these plants and have not been treated with drugs such as antibiotics.
b. Comparing Organic Vs. Non-organic Gardening
Is organic better? Conventional wisdom says yes, but the research is a little more inconclusive. Several recent studies have shown that organic food is not significantly more nutritious or better tasting than non-organic alternatives. It is proven that organically grown products have 30% less pesticide residues than non-organic ones, but both are within the limits allowed by law.
Many of us wonder if there is a real difference between organic and non-organic gardening.
The differences exist and, in addition to being varied, they are objectively understandable. Choosing one seed rather than another is equivalent to deciding whether to be on the side of nature and the environment or not. Considering that the use of seeds can address not only new crops but also the use of human nutrition, having clear ideas about the essential characteristics and substantial differences between the type of organic seeds and the one treated, can certainly make the difference. in your choice.
In the subsequent part of this book, we will talk about the particularities of both, answering the various questions that we can ask ourselves about it.
c. The Environmental Impact Of Organic And Non Organic Seeds
The question is: what environmental impact do the production of organic and non-organic seeds have?
To answer this question, let's read this paragraph.
Today we are witnessing an all too casual use of chemistry in nature without going to the bottom of understanding whether the treatments to which the plants are subjected are only superficial, such as the case of copper green on the leaves which has the fungicidal effect.
The treatments to which plant organisms are subjected are very often systemic, that is, able to penetrate inside their tissues, conditioning it and even modifying its future development.
Having said this, it is easy to understand how any intervention of artificial agents can directly affect the semen inside it.
Returning to the external treatment to disinfect the seed or disinfect it from bacteria, molds or fungi, it should be considered that any chemical substance is able to freely penetrate from the plant to the soil, even if in modest quantities.
Very often, in a completely superficial way, we witness the use of these artifact products, believing that they cannot cause damage of any kind to plants, or to the environment and, consequently, not even to seeds.
But is not so. These are artificial elements often harmful to the soil also because the common "fungicides", useful for fighting the most common plant and vegetable diseases, contain ingredients that are also harmful to the microorganisms present in the earth, very useful for guaranteeing and keeping the fields fertile. and essential for the health of the plant itself.
The environmental impact of the production of treated seeds is therefore negative because it alters the normal balance of nature.
The method of cultivation of the seeds has a considerable influence on the same level as knowing their origin.
The organic seed currently present on the market is the safest and subjected to serious and scrupulous checks for the protection of human health and for the protection of nature. This is a very strong statement that has many explanations in its favor. First of all it is necessary to keep in mind the fundamental peculiarity of organic seeds: their production takes place through the spontaneous development of the plant, with natural pollination by bees.
The organic seeds are then produced absolutely free from chemicals and therefore they are in no way whatsoever the presence of genetically modified organisms, the dreaded GM.
The organic seeds are conceived of cultivation techniques with zero environmental impact and highly sustainable eco. Their entire production is carried out without using chemical pesticides or artificial fertilizers. This is an important peculiarity because no substances capable of polluting the air or the ground are released.
The immediate and highly appreciable consequence of organic seeds is the guarantee of being completely natural and healthy, ready for high quality consumption, respectful of the environment and human well-being.
d. The peculiarity of organic seeds and their production
The second question is: what characteristics do organic and treated seeds have?
The defense of the plant that will have to produce the organic seeds occurs in a completely natural way. In any case, plant organisms receive worthy protection from insect attack through the use of organic fertilizers and natural-based fungicides. The guarantee of obtaining healthy and strong organic seeds is achieved precisely by avoiding the use of poisons and pesticides, instead favoring biodegradable products that are excellent for general health: of the plant, of the future seed and of the final consumer, as well as of the environment.
To ensure a good and constant availability of organic seeds, the seeds are subjected to a careful selection of their variety, regulated by international laws and standards. In most part of Europe, the correct development of the organic sector is supported by a fruitful collaboration of the European associations and by the "Research Institute for Organic Agriculture (FiBL) ". This is an excellent job because it tends to genetically improve the organic, following the European directives in the field of agriculture, applying international regulations in a timely manner.
According to these rules, there are four characteristics that a truly organic seed must have: "fertility", "ability to self-reproduce", "genetic respect", respect for natural "barriers".
In summary, when organic seeds are sown, they must give rise to plants of the same type, self-reproducing without the need for external agents or chemicals, respecting their genome and their natural development.
e. How to distinguish organic seeds from treated ones?
This is an indispensable question as it is not possible to distinguish the two types of seeds with the naked eye or even under the microscope also because, externally they appear identical.
In fact it is possible to distinguish them by their identity card.
There is a regulation that deals with guaranteeing the origin of the seeds, certifying the organic ones. It is not difficult to identify organic from non-organics seeds . As with any type of product, it is always necessary to read the label on the package. In the case of organic seeds, the certification given by the "Organic Agriculture" mark of origin is present.
In the same way, the origin and methods of production are indicated in the packaging of the treated seeds.
Distinguishing Features: Organic Seeds!
The organic seed comes from companies that mainly use natural crops, without using pesticides or products harmful to the environment.
Those who use organic seeds behave ethically towards nature, choosing which side to stand on from an environmental point of view.
Some may wonder if there is also a price difference between organic and treated seeds . Yes, there is a different minimum price between the two types of seeds, slightly higher than a few cents for organic seeds, truly imperceptible for those who care about their well-being and that of nature.
Seeds And Their Food Consumption
One aspect to keep in mind is the use of seeds in human nutrition which today is not just a fashion but a lifestyle choice aimed at the pursuit of well-being at three hundred and sixty degrees.
Thinking back to a song from several decades ago, in which a phrase repeated "to make a tree you need the seed ...", which our parents still love to sing today, it is easy to explain the close link between the tree and the seed. and, consequently, among the vegetables, fruit, or rice that we bring to the table and that we consume every day.
Before eating any product of the earth, it would be good to ask yourself the type of path he took before arriving on our plate, also taking responsibility for the choices, both from an environmental and personal well-being point of view.
Knowing how to identify the strong link between the seed and the tomato or lentils of our dish is the first real step in becoming aware of how important it is to know the difference between organic seeds and treated seeds.
Thinking about how that seed that arrived on our plate was born in full respect of the environment is a reason for total pride.
One of the strongest arguments in favor of organic plants is the environmental impact, as organic farming practices lead to less chemical and pharmaceutical runoff. Additionally, organic farms and gardens tend to be smaller and use more environmentally stable methods, such as rotation and cover crops.

The Benefits Of Organic Gardening

Growing an organic garden has many advantages. Beyond the fact of producing good, healthy fruits and vegetables, without chemicals from seed to plate, the personal benefits are also very numerous because, not only, it is a gentle physical activity that allows you to move, to take the air, while having the pleasure of patience, to go to the rhythm of the vegetable seasons.
Through this part, I’ll offer you 8 benefits that comes with having your organic garden ...
• Reason number 1 to create a garden: pleasure
The simple fact of setting up a vegetable garden, maintaining it and above all harvesting your own fruits and vegetables is already a pleasure because, what could be more pleasant than to feed on your own production, far from the supermarkets? In addition, if you decide to garden organically, naturally or even in permaculture, all the knowledge that you will acquire through practice in the organic garden.
For example, knowledge about the soil, its biological life, its mechanisms which promote self-fertilization is a most fascinating field and I think that the more we are interested in the subject, the more it becomes fascinating. Likewise, the pleasure goes through various things in an organic garden such as the subject of the organization, to take the time to plan your entire season in the vegetable garden in order to obtain harvests that follow one after the other. others.
• Reason number 2 to garden: Relaxation
Many gardener sees the garden as a moment of calm, away from the stresses of everyday life, as if time has stood still. Nature is never in a hurry in the end. It advances and evolves constantly and slowly with the seasons. A well-appointed garden, like its owner, is also a place where people like to spend their free time, enjoy beautiful sunny days, accompanied by the song of birds etc ...
A moment of relaxation can also be in the simple fact of observing nature at work. The different insects that inhabit the garden are sources of inspiration when we learn to (for example) attract ladybugs , when we observe all the natural mechanisms, the subtle balances between the different animal species or even the play of colors. depending on the season allow you to recharge your batteries.
• Reason number 3 to have a vegetable garden: Passion
This is basically reason number 1 but goes beyond, because with pleasure is born the passion of the organic gardener who is based on the mastery of gestures, methods and natural techniques that revolve around your vegetable garden. And on this point, there are today several gardening methods such as the square vegetable garden, permaculture, the vegetable garden on a bale of straw etc ...
This is also what is interesting because, if you are curious or curious by nature, you are bound to want to test new approaches in order to take what works for you. Personally, in my vegetable gardens, I always try to have several methods of gardening (for example: a traditional vegetable garden in full ground, a plot with a self-fertile mound, cultures in pots etc…). What fascinates people is often the different experiences that we decide to set up.

• Reason number 4 for organic gardening: Exchanges
Passion also comes from discussions with other gardeners who are sometimes more experienced and one day, after a few years of experience in the vegetable garden, it will be you who will give expert advice to novices, simply by transmitting your passion for gardening, your good practices. But not only, through these exchanges, it can be experiences, observations, exchanges of seeds, sharing of part of the harvests.
Also, I have never seen a gardener not say during a good meal… “They are tomatoes which come from the garden.” I am sure that you recognize yourself in this sentence if you already have a vegetable garden…
• Reason number 5 to make a vegetable garden: To teach children
It is said that the vegetable patch and the garden in general is an activity reserved for retirees. Well, that was probably true before, but since my experience, I have more and more mothers and fathers among my clients who want to grow a vegetable garden in order to eat healthier. If you are in this case, take the opportunity to involve your younglings.
In addition, you can take the opportunity to show them some insects, give them some knowledge about your natural gardening (which will be useful to them later through the various memories that you will have created). Plus, it's a great way to get a kid to eat vegetables. The simple fact of harvesting your own spinach in the vegetable garden, preparing it with an adult is the best way to make certain vegetables appreciate.
• Reason number 6 to cultivate a vegetable garden: Seasonal fruits and vegetables
Over time, many people have become accustomed to finding tomatoes and strawberries all year round. This obligatory causes a loss of reference on the fruits of the seasons. In fact, making a vegetable garden and on the condition of correctly planning your sowing and planting allows you to reconnect with this seasonal aspect.
It is also a very good opportunity to revisit old and sometimes forgotten vegetables, incredibly tasty varieties of tomatoes and completely different from those on the market ... In short, the fruits and vegetables harvested in the garden will be a thousand times better tasting than what you expect. find in the trade because initially, your plants will be nourished naturally and not chemically, your fruits and vegetables will be harvested at maturity.
• Reason number 7 to grow fruits and vegetables: The savings
At the start of your organic garden project, the costs can actually go up ... Between the purchase of the equipment necessary for the creation of the vegetable garden (such as the fork-spade, the pruning shears etc.), the purchase of the first plants, books for learning to garden and so on… the bill goes up pretty quickly in the first few years but again, these expenses are only temporary as most things can only be bought once.
If we take the example of seeds, once purchased and sown, nothing prevents you from recovering your seeds from one year to the next. The only criterion to be taken into account in this case is the shelf life of the seeds in order to maintain a good germination rate. Then, once the experience has been acquired and when we see the kilos of tomatoes (for example) that can be harvested, the savings are very real in the long term.
• Reason number 8 to garden naturally: Favor your environment
By creating your vegetable garden, you will be a powerful actor in the preservation of the soil and its wealth, of biodiversity as a whole. By focusing on the diversity of plants of all sizes in your garden, you encourage the arrival of different insects and animals which will thus settle down and find a balance between them.
Likewise, by mulching your soil, you also reduce your water consumption, limit the phenomenon of evaporation from the soil and the best thing is to install a water collector, thus controlling this precious resource. And of course, if you go to a vegetable garden without pesticides or chemical treatments , your environment is in respect and a sense of nature.
To conclude;
As you can see an organic vegetable garden is very nice, so what are you waiting for? It is high time to prepare your land , define your list of fruits and vegetables, plan your next seedlings and plantings and get started.

Chapter 2: The Basics of Organic Gardening


You’ve made up your mind! You are going to embark on the adventure of the organic garden. Adventure that cannot be improvised: from the choice of the location of your vegetable garden to the preparation of the soil, from the good structuring of the beds to the selection of vegetables, we will give you the keys to success. To you the succulence of fresh vegetables just picked yet soaked in sunshine has become something of more appeal to you and you just cannot wait to start savoring the moment. Well, you are not alone.
To enjoy the benefits of organic food when it's in season without spending a fortune, there's nothing like growing your own vegetables. But without having a green thumb, it's not easy to start organic gardening! In this chapter, you’ll learn about the basics that portrays the pleasures of green gardening, to enable you create an organic vegetable garden!

STARTING YOUR ORGANIC GARDEN: SOME BASICS TO CONSIDER
An organic vegetable garden, you dream of it without really knowing where to start? From choosing the location to harvesting the vegetables, follow the step-by-step guide.
What pleasure and what pride to eat the fruits and vegetables that you have grown yourself in the garden! With an organic vegetable garden, even a modest one, you can enjoy good, healthy and tasty products at low cost. In the process, we discover more about nature and we gain in food resilience.
The motivation is there but difficult to know where to start? Afraid of going wrong because you don't have a green thumb and know nothing about gardening?
Here is a guide that accompanies the beginner gardener step by step to start and maintain his first organic vegetable garden . The advice is simple and practical, and the vegetables chosen are rather easy to grow.
The more experienced may also glean some new tips. Of course, there are 1001 ways to cultivate your vegetable garden. What works in one may fail in the other. It's up to everyone to do their own thing. Because - fortunately! - nature is too rich and diverse to fit into pretty little huts.
Welcome to the plant world!
To start a vegetable garden, it is not enough to throw a few seeds on the ground. Fruits and vegetables are living things. They therefore have some demands to develop well. Understanding how they work allows you to put all the chances on your side to make your first organic vegetable garden a success.
• What do plants need?
In summary, here are the needs of your plants to grow well;
i. Food; especially as we ask them to grow quickly and well.
ii. Nutrients; to be drawn from the soil via the roots (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.). They differ depending on the vegetables. We provide them with fertilizers such as compost or natural fertilizers.
iii. Light; which the plant will capture via the leaves to transform it into energy. We therefore think carefully where to place our vegetable garden to ensure good sunshine.
iv. Water; hence the importance of managing watering.
v. Auxiliaries;(many little animals: bacteria, fungi, mites, insects, etc.) to make nutrients available to plants, help them absorb them, defend themselves against pests ... An organic vegetable garden is best for them because we avoids pesticides.
vi. A well structured and aerated soil to anchor and deploy the roots, and also to help the life of the soil.
vii. Personal space; with a correct density of vegetables and good weed management.
viii. Time; to ripen as desired before finishing with dignity on our plate.
All this in a fair measure. Because lack or excess is harmful to plants. Especially since each vegetable has its own needs.
We could also add a last need: the vigilance of the gardener. Because we must ensure the proper development of the vegetable garden throughout the season.
• The precepts of the beginner gardener
To give yourself every chance of making your first organic vegetable garden, follow some general advice.
Evaluating your available time is important because for example; a 100m 2 vegetable garden requires around 300 hours of work per year. But this is a minimum because everything takes more time for a beginner ... Of course, we can make choices that save time (easy to grow vegetables, plants to transplant rather than seedlings for example) but it will remain a minimum of care to be provided throughout the season.
Keeping a logbook may seem a bit tedious but it is really very useful and will save time and experience in the following years. When you start, you educate yourself in all directions and you can end up being a little lost in the information and not really knowing what advice you followed. We therefore note in our notebook the date of the various works, the purchase references, the choice of plants and varieties, the places and dates of planting and harvest, if we appreciated a variety, how we solved certain small problems ... According to what seems easiest, you can cut out your notebook month by month, dedicate a double page to each vegetable ... For future years, it will suffice to draw inspiration from your victories and failures to do the best: more easily place the crop rotation,
• When to start your organic garden?
There is no such thing as a universal right time to start a vegetable garden. Of course, we can mention spring, depending on the temperature. But that's especially when you start to put your hands in the earth, which makes the vegetable garden more concrete.
Before that, you can take advantage of the winter to think about your organic garden, select your vegetables, maintain your tools… Then you will have to work and prepare the land before thinking about sowing.
If we transform a lawn or a wasteland into a vegetable garden with a gentle technique such as blackout, we do it between 2 and 6 months in advance.
For a first vegetable garden, we often want to get started when the beautiful days of April or May return. In fact, it is already a bit late. But do not panic ! There is already a lot to put in place in the first year. You can make your life easier and save time by opting for transplanting plants at the outset. April and May are then a good time to prepare the ground before installing the plants. We reserve the discovery of seedlings for the following year or we test on very fast crops and end-of-season productions.
• What does it take to start a organic garden?
Not much! A piece of earth, a little compost, a few seeds and plants, a few basic tools. Without counting a little patience, humility (besides this word "humility" takes its root from "humus" and this humus is very respected by a good gardener), water, good weather and not too much water!
• Preparing your organic patch
The first thing to start your organic garden is to dedicate a piece of land, if possible fertile. Don't panic if this patch of lawn is full of weeds. If this is your very first time starting a organic garden, dedicate a minimum of one to two square meters. You will have a few vegetables, not enough to eat for a year, but I imagine that may not be your goal (yet). Let's see how to choose your tools and location and how to prepare it.

TOOLS NEEDED

When you are embarking on the creation or maintenance of an organic garden and you do not have a great deal of knowledge in the matter, it can be difficult to navigate among all the gardening tools.
Forms, uses, materials, all this can be a bit obscure for novices. However, it is not essential to buy many tools to start in the vegetable garden.
However, I’ve selected the best tools you’d need to make the most out of your gardening, each of which has their own interest. However, it is not mandatory to have all of them. If your neighbors are also gardening, don't hesitate to share your tools: a good way to save money but also to create connection!

i. The transplant/ Compact shovel
The transplanter is a kind of small shovel with a short handle. It allows you to dig holes for plantings or transplants (replant plants from your vegetable garden in another place), to take soil or compost. It is preferably chosen from steel, which is more robust.
ii. The rake
The hand rake consists of a serrated piece of metal or plastic attached to a long wooden or plastic handle. It is the perfect tool for leveling and refining the soil before sowing. But also tamping the ground, that is to say to level it, after having planted.
iii. Wheelbarrow
When you garden and create your vegetable garden, it involves a lot of travel, sometimes with heavy materials. The wheelbarrow allows the gardener to avoid a lot of trouble.
However, you must be careful to use it properly: keep your back straight with your arms stretched out alongside your body. Efforts must be made with the legs and shoulders, to avoid pain in the lumbar region.
You can choose a solid wheel, which is puncture-proof and particularly useful on steep terrain. Or an inflatable tire, which for its part will cushion the roughness of the terrain but which is more sensitive to punctures.
iv. The watering can/hose
When you have finished sowing or planting seeds and vegetables in the kitchen garden, it is often necessary to water them. During the summer, your garden will also require a dose of water for your plants to continue their growth and bear fruit. Thus, the watering can or garden hose is a must.
On the watering side, you can water directly from the neck, to have a stronger flow, if the plantations are not afraid of the force of the water jet. You can also use a sprinkler head which allows for a softer watering. You can as well buy different watering can heads, the output of which varies depending on the diameter of the small holes. This type of watering is perfect for seedlings because it does not disturb the soil surface.
Finally, the watering boom, another type of nozzle that attaches to the watering can, allows for wider and regular watering. Perfectly suited for large strips of plantations.
v. Compost Bin
Compost is an alchemist's dream: transforming waste into gold material for the garden. 30% of our waste can become, in a few months, an amendment or a mulch: better harvests and water savings in perspective. A gesture beneficial for the environment on both sides: by reducing waste and by using natural materials in the garden! So then, why not create a bin to accommodate it?
Compost comes from the transformation of organic waste (leftover fruit and vegetables, grass, branches, etc.) in the presence of water and oxygen, through micro-organisms (microscopic fungi, bacteria, etc.).
At the end of composting, larger organisms intervene: these are decomposers such as earthworms, mites, woodlice, centipedes, beetles and many other species… The product obtained is comparable to 'humus, very useful in agriculture and gardening. It provides plants with essential elements for their growth.
vi. The Secateurs/Pruners
The secateurs are a gardener's tool that looks like large scissors. The secateurs allow you to prune the plantations or small branches of your trees and shrubs. For slightly thicker branches, some have a rotating handle that allows you to use the force of all your fingers, to be more comfortable and efficient.
It is necessary to clean it well and disinfect it after each use to avoid the transmission of diseases to your different plantations.
vii. Chipping Hoe
Used since the dawn of time and all over the world, the hoe is a very versatile tool for organic gardening. The tool is simple, but effective: a handle and a steel blade attached to it. The conventional hoe, initially confined to agricultural work, gradually infiltrated gardens around the 19th century. Thanks to a hoe, you will be able in turn: loosen the earth, hoe, weed, dig planting holes or trenches, butter ... In short, as a Provençal proverb says: "If you are sad and tasteless, go to your field and take the hoe.” No matter what state of mind we find ourselves in, take our hoe and go work in the garden!
viii. The spade
To turn or loosen the soil on small surfaces and in depth (up to 35-40cm) by turning it, nothing better than the spade. It also makes it possible to deposit compost on the earth in order to enrich it with organic matter.
Made up of a long wooden handle, and an iron workpiece, it is advisable to choose it with a curved handle for easier work for the gardener. Some models are equipped with a handle for more maneuverability and easier work.
ix. Gloves
The hands are very vulnerable especially in gardening work since they are the main tool used and are exposed to many dangers. That is why it is so important to use the appropriate gloves for the activity we are going to carry out.
As an organic gardener, it’s essential that you use gloves as and this element must be considered essential for the protection. A third of the work-related accidents in the industrial and agricultural sector are involved with the arms, fingers, hands and feet. This is why it is important to be aware of and invest in appropriate safety gloves.
x. The serfouette
The serfouette will be particularly useful for spring plantings. Indeed, it allows to dig furrows in which one comes to deposit the seedlings of carrots, aubergines or other green beans.
Another use: the serfouette digs up your potatoes in the blink of an eye, without damaging them.
Now that you have your tools, all you have to do is choose your space and what to plant in your vegetable garden!

Finding The Right Space

Have you finally decided to embark on the adventure of the vegetable garden? It's good news ! But before you start blindly, you have to think carefully, especially about the location of your garden. Indeed, it is an essential criterion to take into account in order to have good harvests. So how do you do it? What are the rules to follow?
• Find the right place
It will therefore be necessary to determine the right place for your organic garden. It is not necessarily easy! It is indeed necessary to respect certain basic rules to find the ideal location. First of all, you have to choose a place close to your accommodation. Indeed, you will have to regularly maintain your vegetable garden, and it is better to position it not far from your home. Access must be simple. Then, it is imperative to have a water point nearby: watering will be simplified and this water point will save you precious time. Finally, it is important to check the quality of the soil as well as the slope. Indeed, a too steep ground is not recommended because it could create erosions. It is therefore preferable, for a novice gardener, to opt for a flat ground.
• Observe the movement of the sun
You should know that not all vegetables need the same amount of sunshine. However, an average has been established at around 6 hours per day. You must therefore be attentive to the exposure of your vegetable garden. The amount of sunshine varies from one season to another, and it is possible that a vegetable garden in the summer sun is in the shade in the winter, and vice versa! A south/southwest exposure is simply ideal. However, if you can't find a location that allows the daily 6 hours of sunshine, that's not a big deal either. It takes at least 4 hours a day for some leafy vegetables that require less sun than others!

• Check the humidity level
The soil is an essential criterion for the success of your organic garden. The latter must be rich in humus, well drained and not very stony. However, this soil remains rare! The main thing is the drainage of the land. Just observe your soil after a heavy rain. If you find that there are puddles of water, then the drainage is not of good quality. We will therefore have to find another place to install it or set up a vegetable patch. Of course, you should also avoid installing your vegetable garden near a septic tank, or even towards a pipe. It is essential to take all these criteria into account for your vegetable garden to be efficient and your adventure to go well!
As you will have understood, choosing the location of your vegetable garden is not easy, but by following a few basic rules, you will be able to identify the perfect place in your garden. This is essential for successfully growing pretty fruits and vegetables. It's your turn!

Choose The Right Plants

Trees, shrubs, vegetables, flowers, fruit trees ... choosing plants for the garden, is an exciting step, but it is not always easy. Buying plants is easy, sure, but choosing the right ones for you is a whole different story that requires careful thought to avoid disappointment, waste of time and money. In this book, you will see which criteria to check in order to choose the plants that will best suit your context, as well as the common mistakes to avoid.
- Time to spend -
First of all, it is essential to think about the time you have to devote to the maintenance of your plants, in order to choose plants that will suit you. For those who have little time to invest each week in the garden, I advise you to favor plants with low maintenance and easy to grow. It is quite possible to have a beautiful garden by investing a minimum of hours per week by choosing the right plants.
- Rusticity -
The hardiness of a plant comes down to its potential for cold tolerance. Be sure to plant plants that can grow under the climatic conditions in your area. Perennials survive very well in a climate that most closely resembles their natural habitat.
Since climatic conditions can vary from region to region, Agriculture Canada researchers present a map of nine major hardiness zones. Zone 0 being the coldest and zone 8 being the hottest. Each zone is made up of two sub-zones, that is, sub-zone "a" which has a colder climate than sub-zone "b.”
When we buy a new perennial, it is therefore very important to learn about its hardiness zone. The hardiness zone granted to a plant is the coldest zone in which it can grow normally and survive well. Usually, the hardiness zone is mentioned on the identification tag attached to the plant pot.
If you buy your perennials, shrubs, and trees from a local nursery that produces their own plants, you are more likely to have these plants already accustomed to the climate in your area, which increases the chances of winter survival. However, if your plants have grown in a greenhouse, it is important to quietly acclimatize them to their new outdoor environment.
- Space -
It is strongly advised to think about the available space before choosing your plants. You have to imagine the plant in a mature state and plan the space it will occupy in 10, 20 or 30 years.
I also invite you to check your municipality's regulations concerning the planting or felling of trees and shrubs. In some municipalities, it is forbidden to grow poplars, certain varieties of maples or other types of trees and shrubs, since these can damage underground conduits, sidewalks and foundations. Also consider electrical wires, buildings near other mature plants, etc.
- The exhibition -
To get beautiful plants, respect their needs! If you buy a plant that requires a sunny environment and is found in a semi-shaded location that provides it with only 4 hours of sunlight per day, it will never develop to its full potential and will not live very long. It is therefore a waste of time and money to try to grow a plant in an unsuitable location.
Plants in a sunny environment usually require 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ideally, they should be exposed to the sun from 10 a.m. until the end of the afternoon.
Partial shade plants, on the other hand, can grow with 4-6 hours of direct light per day or diffused, but sustained light for most of the day.
Eventually, those in shady settings can grow in diffused light or with as little as 3 hours of direct light per day. These plants grow well under trees. In the spring, they receive a lot of direct light since the sun is lower on the horizon, but this light is not harmful to them. In summer, when the radiation intensifies, they are protected by the plant cover of trees.
- The type of soil -
It is important to know our type of soil to know which species will be able to grow there. As a general rule, good soil provides good fertility , good drainage and must maintain an adequate amount of water. It should be understood that each plant has different needs. Some even grow very well in poor, dry soil. By knowing your type of soil and its structure, you can choose the plants that will please.

Thank you for sharing this information. I'm just interested in learning more about organic gardening and starting this spring to apply these helpful tips to my small backyard garden. I would like to increase the yield of fruit trees this year, but I don't want to use any harsh chemicals to do so. So organic gardening is something that can help me.

Yes organic farming will help you a lot, you can check out our YouTube channel on how to produce your own organic pesticide from weeds.

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riksss:
Thank you for sharing this information. I'm just interested in learning more about organic gardening and starting this spring to apply these helpful tips to my small backyard garden. I would like to increase the yield of fruit trees this year, but I don't want to use any harsh chemicals to do so. So organic gardening is something that can help me.