We live in a time when humans have a tremendous impact on the environment with agriculture and industry. This is especially true in developed countries – according to research by the University of Michigan, we would need 5 planets to support the Earth’s current population if everyone had the environmental footprint of the average American citizen.
At Moodscapes, we believe in designing the landscapes we install and maintain to emulate the processes of nature instead of interfering with them. We refer to this as organic and sustainable gardening. The creation and nurturing of an outdoor space that fits seamlessly with nature will enhance the environment around your home as well as your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Our approach to organic gardening relies on a few guiding principles:
Before any kind of landscape design or maintenance procedure is carried out on a yard, it is important to understand and control the soil. We suggest all homeowners get a soil test for their yard, which will provide nutrient indicators, acidity and pH levels for the soil. From there, it is important to make sure soil is properly aerated so that plants can create a root system. At Moodscapes, we aerate by applying compost rather than tilling.
It doesn’t matter if you are planting a vegetable garden or creating a watering schedule for the lawn: you need to know your soil for successful organic gardening.
Landscaping or home improvement contractors who work in a yard will sometimes cover up or eliminate symptoms of larger problems. For example, if there is an issue with a certain part of the soil, they may simply cover it in dirt and wood chips without thinking about the underlying problem.
With organic gardening, land care focuses on the cause of the problem, not the symptom. Problems with plant leaves, grass, and soil are usually indicators of a larger issue going on in a yard. Organic gardening attempts to find and solve those underlying issues, instead of just clipping unhealthy leaves or covering up infertile soil.
Lawn care chemicals have been in use for decades. They’re especially popular with those looking to eliminate problematic weeds. But studies have shown for years that chemicals like glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, cause harm to bees and other wildlife at the base of the food chain. Humans using Roundup may be in danger too: this year alone, three different juries ruled that Roundup caused cancer in plaintiffs who filed suit against Monsanto, the product’s parent company. There are thousands of other lawsuits currently being pursued against the organization.
Organic gardening emphasizes the use of natural remedies for things like fertilizer, weed removal, and animal repellent. While there can be a time and place for the use of synthetic chemicals in yard care, it’s better to use natural compounds like garlic, lemon juice, and milk.
Respect for the natural environment around us will help prolong our world so that future generations can enjoy it. Moodscapes is proud to use organic gardening techniques that preserve and facilitate nature, while building harmonious outdoor spaces for our clients to relax and recharge. To learn more about organic gardening, contact us today.