Grow Organically

Natural versus organic
Is the term “natural” the same as “organic?” The answer is no, and these terms are not interchangeable. For example, a rock is natural, however it is not organic. To be organic, a material must be derived from living organisms, plants and/or animals. It must also contain a complex carbon compound chain in its composition.

When we see organic food in the supermarket, is has been produced without conventional pesticides, fertilizers, synthetic ingredients, sewage sludge, bioengineering or ionizing radiation. To make a claim of organic, these food products must support their claim under the guidelines of the USDA National Organic Program.

Plant nutrition is a chemical process
All plant nutrients, whether they are supplied organic fertilizers or synthetic fertilizers, are absorbed by plants in ionic form. To absorb these ‘ionic’ nutrients, plant root systems exchange hydrogen (+) and hydroxyl ions (-) in order to absorb needed elements, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, sulfur, etc. Compared to water soluble chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers are not taken up immediately by the plant and require microbial activity to convert organic components in the fertilizer to accessible nutrients.

Pots are a closed system
Growing in containers is always a challenge since it is what we call a closed system. Plants only have access to the nutrients in the growing medium and/or from fertilizer applied by the grower. Select organic fertilizers that are low in waste ions, such as sodium and chloride, and that can provide the necessary plant nutrition. Check the fertilizer labels and the manufacturer’s product claims. Before starting an organic program, it’s a good idea to trial different products to have a ‘comfort’ zone’.

For more information about PRO-MIX MP Organik® MYCORRHIZAE®, visit Premier Tech’s website at www.pthorticulture.com.