Ladybugs are a highly helpful natural pesticide to have in your garden. They feed on a myriad of insect unwanted insects including aphids.

Even organic pest controls can be harmful to humans and pets. Shield your plants when spraying and don’t spray when it’s windy.

The longer the growing season, the more compost needed in the soil. Longer seasons require more nutrients & organic matter in the soil.

Crop Rotation: Changing location and variety of plants for better success. http://gro4.us/1ffJ7T

Encourage earthworms in your soil. They benefit the soil and plants by increasing air space in the soil & leaving behind worm castings.

5 Non-Organic Fruits and Vegetables That May Work in a Pinch http://gro4.us/1fdvQf

Water your garden in the morning. It helps avoid mildew and other fungal diseases that are often spread by high humidity.

Avoid using railroad ties or other treated wood in your vegetable garden; the chemicals used as preservatives can be toxic & harmful.

Have you installed a drip irrigation system in your organic backyard garden yet? Check out the advantages. http://vegs.me/oyVh6N

Rotating your crops each year will help reduce pest and disease problems and help correct nutrient deficiencies in the soil.

Attract ladybugs to your garden with nectar-producing plants such as parsley, dill, and fennel. Ladybugs will help control unwanted pests.

Water plants deeply & thoroughly. Frequent, shallow waterings train plants to keep their roots near the surface, making them less hardy.

Is your garden soil’s pH level preventing your plants from growing flourishing? | http://vegs.me/rebv6K

A great organic approach to pest control: build up your soil to encourage healthy microbes and micro-organisms, and earthworms.

Physical pest control is removal of pests by hand - with a stream of water, a net, or by picking bugs from the plant using your fingers.

Cantaloupe deaths and illnesses spread, raising more concerns about our food supply. CDC and FDA investigating. http://vegs.me/p7cC35