Tag: Organic gardening

Over 95% of a plant's dry weight is composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are obtained from air and water. For the remaining 5%, plants must absorb a variety of mineral nutrients from the soil to support healthy growth and development.

Food waste accounts for a staggering 30-40% of the food supply in some regions, with a large portion being nutrient-rich fruit and vegetable peels that can be used for gardening. Understanding which peels have phosphorus can help you convert this waste into a valuable, eco-friendly resource for your plants.

Every living organism, including bananas, contains a small amount of nitrogen as a component of proteins and amino acids. However, the common belief that bananas or their peels are a rich source of nitrogen for plants is a widespread gardening myth.

According to the National Institutes of Health, while many flowers are a nutritious source of fiber and antioxidants, the consumption of others can be toxic and even fatal. This reality makes knowing if all edible flowers can be eaten an important first step before adding them to your food or drink, as proper identification and preparation are paramount for safety.

Native to drier parts of India, ashwagandha, also known as Indian Ginseng or winter cherry, has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. Cultivating this adaptogenic herb successfully requires understanding and replicating the specific best conditions for Ashwagandha, from its warm, arid climate preference to its need for excellent soil drainage.

Potassium is the third most abundant mineral in the human body, but the term 'organic' can be misleading when applied to elements. Yes, there are organic forms of potassium, which refers to the mineral when it is naturally contained within living or once-living matter.

Banana peels account for millions of tons of food waste generated annually, contributing to methane gas emissions when discarded in landfills. Instead of throwing them away, learn how to pulverize banana peels into a potent, nutrient-rich powder that serves as an excellent organic fertilizer for your garden.

Records suggest that Chinese cooks have incorporated edible flowers into their cuisine since as far back as 3,000 BCE. The use of flowers in cooking continues to this day, though many are still unaware of what flowers are edible and non toxic. Incorporating blooms like vibrant nasturtiums and fragrant roses can elevate dishes with unique flavors and stunning aesthetics.

While most people admire roses for their beauty, a surprising number of varieties, including button roses, are completely edible. These miniature blooms, when grown without pesticides, can add a delicate, floral flavor and beautiful color to a variety of dishes and beverages. However, it is crucial to understand the proper preparation and safety guidelines before consuming them.

According to the USDA, an estimated 10-30% of apple harvests can be lost due to insect pests, making it critical for both home gardeners and consumers to know how to make sure there are no bugs in apples. From careful inspection to post-harvest cleaning and storage methods, securing a bug-free fruit is achievable for everyone.