[dropcap]S[/dropcap]ince the introduction of organic farming to the U.S. by J.J. Rodale in the 1940s, the practice has gained momentum year after year. My farm joined the movement in 1991 and has been certified organic ever since. The USDA now reports the fantastic news that some 4.1 million acres within the U.S. are farmed organically.
So how can all of the gardeners of Buda, Kyle, Mountain City and other surrounding areas emulate this example?
It begins with soil – the life blood of the organic industry. From nurturing your earthworms to mulching your beds, your care for the soil is going to be critical to the success of your veggie garden.
Mulch should be thought of as a top priority. In the summer months, it alone solves the problem of the build-up of heat around the roots. It also helps the soil absorb moisture.
However there is a downside to mulch. It can protect and encourage harmful insects – especially under fruit trees.
When cold spells hit, the best thing to do is loosen up that mulch. This will help to expose and freeze harmful insects, such as the notorious ‘plum curculio’ beetle, destroyer of fruit crops.
Putting row covers on your crops the day before freezing weather may be good for the plants – but be aware that it can also offer a sanctuary from the cold to harmful insect life.
Earthworms, a key component to a successful garden, require organic matter and safe places to stay warm. At my farm, instead of compost piles I created trenches throughout the property, filled with woodchips and garden debris.
These become safe havens for worms during the hot season. A norm for me is to dig specific beds next to trenches to encourage the worms to have freshly dug soil to move to.
There may be some extra challenges for the people in the new subdivisions in Hays County. Many are built on chemically worn-out farmland – where the soil is suffering after years of chemical abuse.
However it is never too late to start nursing your garden back towards recovery and good health using organic farming practices. Happy organic gardening everyone!
(Tim Miller owns Millberg Farm in Kyle)
If you have a gardening question, send it to me via email: [email protected]. (Please put ‘Ask Chris Winslow’ in the subject line.) Or mail your letter or postcard to: Ask Chris Winslow. It’s About Thyme: 11726 Manchaca Road, Austin, TX 78748.
