Before you start your garden, make sure the soil in your garden is healthy. A soil testing kit can help you determine the needs of the soil. Soil testing kits are available at your local garden center or nursery. Also you will want to choose an area for your organic garden that has not been exposed to any chemicals. Research the kinds of plants you want to grow. You will want to know how much sunlight they require, how deep the plant should be planted and the amount of space it will need to grow. Knowing these things before you start your garden can help you to make any necessary changes such as the location of your garden or the types of plants you plan to grow in your garden. Providing plants with healthy soil, the correct amount of sunlight and the right amount of space that they require will give them a great start and ensure the overall success of your garden.

Maintaining your organic garden is vital to it's success. Regular maintenance is necessary, such as weeding your whenever weeds begin to appear. You will also need to water your garden on a regular basis. It is important to know how to care for your organic plants. There are several sources that can provide you with information about caring for your organic garden such as organic gardening websites, magazines about organic gardens, and at your local nursery or garden center.

Successful organic gardening tips:

• Mulch your flower beds and trees with 3" of organic material. This not only conserves water but also adds nutrients and discourages weeds. This will give your beds a nice appearance as well.


• Mulch acid-loving plants each fall with a thick layer of pine needles. The pine needles will deposit their acid in the soil as they decompose.


• Spray aphid infested stems, leaves and buds with a soapy water, then with clear water. This is effective even on the heaviest of infestations.


• Use natural, organic alternatives to chemical fertilizers, such as compost. Compost promotes soil fertility and promotes healthy root development. It will also improve the structure of the soil, the texture and increase the soil's water holding capacity.


• When you add compost or soil amendments, you do not need to work the soil deeply because eighty five percent of a plant's roots are found in the top 6" of soil.


• Compost is the best organic matter for bed preparation. Compost is made from anything that was once alive such as leaves and grass clippings.


• If you have weeds in your garden, try spot-spraying them with household vinegar, full strength on a sunny day. This is an organic weed killer and is safe for the environment.


• Avoid piling mulch against tree trunks to prevent diseases and pest infestation. It is best to spread mulch out as far as the drip line.


• Select drought resistant plants to increase conservation of water. These plants commonly have silver leaves, deep taproots and small leaves. Succulents are a good choice of plant because they have the ability to withstand dry weather.