Most homeowners aren't aware that the synthetic fertilizers and chemical pesticides they're consistently using in their yards are carried by rain or irrigation into their local storm drains and polluting local watersheds. A plethora of creeks across America have been listed by the EPA to be impaired by diaznon, a chemical pesticide that was outlawed in 2004 for residential use but is still allowed in agriculture. Diaznon is highly toxic to freshwater fish and invertebrates.
"New scientific studies are finding that pesticides can damage the human nervous system in ways we haven't understood before," says Kristin Schafer, Associate Director with Pesticide Action Network. "Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable, with both autism and Parkinson's increasingly linked to pesticide exposure."
The folly of industrial farming isn't far behind Enron and GM, predicts Professor Stephen Andrews, soil scientist at UC Berkeley. "If you're a believer in agri-business, stick to it. Destroy yourself. You can die when it dies," says Andrews. "Meanwhile, those of us with a more sustainable view of our presence on the planet will be content to produce and purchase food locally using methods that will keep the soil Serengeti alive and well for generations to come."
Basic Differences Between Organic and Conventional Gardening
Some of the main differences between conventional growing and organic growing are that conventional farmers apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth while organic farmers use natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost to feed soil and plants.
Conventional farmers spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease while organic farmers use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease.
Conventional farmers use chemical herbicides to manage weeds while organic farmers rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds.
Conventional farmers give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth. Organic farmers use organic feed and allow animals outdoor access. They use preventive measures such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean housing to help minimize disease.
Organic Farms are Thriving in California
In Marin County, California, with a population of 250,000, all vegetable and fruit tree farms are certified organic. If 52 farms can grow food without dangerous chemicals, organic gardening proponents believe homeowners everywhere can grow food for a family of four or more in the same safe, efficient and tasty way.
"Don't expect to have the Garden of Eden unless you've paid homage to your soil first," says Andrews. "The mantra of home gardeners throughout Obamaland should be compost, compost, compost! Mulch, mulch, mulch! Perhaps Michelle Obama should grow tobacco to keep the cigarette industry happy?"
For more tips on growing organic crops in your home kitchen garden go to www.organicgardening.com or www.Learn2grow.com.For an extensive list of less-toxic home gardening products that don't pollute people, pets and the environment visit www.ourwaterourworld.org
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