ORGANIC GARDENING Meaning and
Definition
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Organic gardening refers to a method of growing plants and cultivating a garden without the use of synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It is a holistic approach that emphasizes the natural balance and harmony within the garden ecosystem.
Organic gardening involves using a variety of techniques and practices to enhance the health and fertility of the soil. This may include the use of compost, manure, and other natural fertilizers to provide essential nutrients to the plants. Organic gardeners also focus on building and maintaining healthy, living soil by promoting beneficial organisms such as earthworms, beneficial bacteria, and fungi, which help break down organic matter and improve soil structure.
In order to control pests, diseases, and weeds, organic gardeners employ a range of ecologically-friendly methods instead of relying on chemical pesticides. This may include crop rotation, intercropping, companion planting, and the use of natural pest deterrents like insect-repelling plants, insect traps, and physical barriers. Organic gardening also emphasizes the importance of biodiversity in the garden, as diverse plant species attract beneficial insects and promote a more balanced ecosystem.
The primary objective of organic gardening is to produce healthy, nutritious, and flavorful crops that are free from harmful residues. By adhering to organic principles, gardeners aim to protect the environment, preserve biodiversity, and minimize the negative impacts of conventional agricultural practices. Organic gardening is not only a way of growing food sustainably but also a philosophy that promotes the interconnectedness of plants, animals, and humans within the natural world.
Etymology of ORGANIC GARDENING
The word "organic" in "organic gardening" refers to farming or cultivation practices that rely on natural materials and methods, without the use of synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The term "organic" comes from the Greek word "organikos", which means "of or pertaining to an organ". In this context, it relates to living, natural organisms and their interrelationships.
The concept of organic gardening emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the industrialization and intensification of agriculture, which heavily relied on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The word "gardening" itself stems from the Old English word "geard" or "gyrd", meaning "enclosure" or "yard".
