Historic Article

Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

What about gardens?

By: Staff Writer

Posted: 05/20/2007 12:22 PM | Comments: 0 (including replies)

Not surprisingly, plenty of the same ideas behind organic lawn care can be applied to your garden.

And if you have a green thumb -- and an open mind -- your garden can be attractive and low-maintenance, said Dave Hanson, co-owner of organic garden centre Sage Garden Herbs.

Hanson said going organic requires a more eclectic approach, which includes working with the strengths of Manitoba's climate, focusing on healthy roots and interplanting, for starters.

"You're just going to see that the results are a healthier, more vibrant garden," he said.

Here are a few tips from Hanson to start greening your garden:

Fertilize organically:

Just like lawns, organic gardens need -- you guessed it -- organic fertilizer. "There are fantastic organic fertilizers available that are affordable, easy to use, and they really work well," said Hanson. Two brands are Grotek Total Nourish and a kelp-based product called Sea Magic.

Aim for diversity:

Try mixing up herbs, vegetables and perennials, instead of planting large patches of the same plant (known as monocultures). This can mean a higher yield and significantly fewer pests and disease problems, said Hanson.

Start composting:

Compost keeps kitchen scraps and organic waste out of landfills, and is a rich fertilizer for gardens.

Shop in the right place:

If your thumb's a little less than green, experienced staff at a knowledgeable garden centre can be a big help.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 20, 2007 $sourceSection$sourcePage

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