Back to the Basics: Steps for Rediscovering the Bounties of Natural Gardening

In addition to saving both time and money, natural gardening can create an eco-friendly environment, helping to conserve precious resources. In an effort to take advantage of the frugality of our ancestors and their appreciation for nature, here are some steps to help you get back to the basics too.

Grow your own food. Fruit and vegetables are not only easy to grow but are great for supplementing your food reserves, significantly cutting down on grocery costs. Eat them fresh, freeze or can them, or even sell your excess vegetables. There's nothing more rewarding then growing and harvesting your own food-and it's better for you too. You can also complement the vegetable garden with herbs. Use them to flavor your favorite dishes or take advantage of their unique medicinal properties as they did back in the day. For example, did you know that parsley can be used for more than a garnish or flavoring agent? It's also a great breath freshener. Common thyme, which is used to flavor many dishes, also has other uses in the garden. A poultice can be made and applied to the skin to relieve aches. Its tea is useful for treating headaches, nervous problems, and indigestion. However, always research a plant thoroughly before using it. There are numerous resources available that can help.

Go native. Not only can you save time and money with native plantings, but you'll also encourage beneficial wildlife. Choosing plants that are adapted to your region's conditions reduce watering needs and maintenance. In addition, these plants are less susceptible to pests or disease. Don't forget to mix in some native flowers with your vegetable garden. This will entice pollinators, like bees and butterflies, which will help increase yields and flower production.

Compost your lawn, garden, and kitchen scraps. This not only encourages recycling but provides a healthy, low-cost alternative to chemical fertilizer. Employed for generations, compost promotes greater soil and plant health by aerating the soil, improving moisture retention and drainage, and providing essential nutrients. Compost contains organic materials like leaves, grass clippings, small woody plants (healthy), straw, manure, and kitchen or garden scraps. In addition to its use for amending soil, you can also make compost tea. This natural gardening fertilizer can be used to water plants. Compost makes an excellent mulch as well.

Our ancestors knew the importance of a simple life. They commonly made use of whatever resources were readily available, appreciating nature and reaping its rewards. You too can be inspired by their natural gardening principles-getting back to the basics.