THE DIRT ON DIRT: Organic soil, mulch and compost for your garden

If you are planting an organic garden start from the roots! Building an organic soil base can be done many ways. There are many choices at hardware store, nurseries, and in your own kitchen!
My sisters and I were lucky enough to be raise by an organic gardener. My family and I am on our fourth organic garden and have found that contrary to what many believe, organic gardening can produce products that are lush, flavorful and yes, large!
So, starting from the ground up you gotta get the dirt. I have used Miracle Grow Organic Soil Mix. This is a good product however, if you are planning a large garden it can get a bit pricey (it runs about $6 a bag).
Then, I found an amazing Texas product at Lowes. I love Texas products for several reasons. One, I'm from Texas. Two, Texas products mean less shipping, less gas consumption and so on. Three, it stimulates our local economy. This product is Scotsman Choice Compost and Mulch. (or so this is what the Lowes nursery guy told me, but I do not have 100% confidence in him, so if this happens to not be the case I will revise). Lowes also carries a product called Northwoods Organic red mulch. Using mulch in your garden can be very helpful. It helps to control moisture levels in the garden and provides a nice habitat for insects that pray on undesirable insects that play enemy to plants.
Another great additive to soil composition is soil conditioner. Soil conditioners make and help keep soil nutritious and plants healthy. Yes, Lowes does carry an organic soil condition but, guess what? So do you! Coffee grounds and tea bags are fabulous soil conditioners! This is a perfect opportunity to raid your favorite coffe shop! Some Starbucks even have grounds packaged and ready to go and Starbucks partners with Conservation International to create coffee and farmer equality practices in places like Rwanda. Starting your own compost at home, work or school is a great and easy way to have a continuous supply of "dirt" for your garden. If done properly, your left overs can be added to your garden in the form of dirt in about 6 months!
Local nurseries usually have an organic mix of soil, compost, and mulch available for the organic gardener. Don't be afraid to ask if there are synthetic material and ingredients added. After all, its your garden!
Happy Gardening!
Amy :)

Local nursery to try:
LivingEarth.net

This is a blog about two Texas sisters on a mission to go 100% organic/green! Our goal is to find local farmers, organic groceries and supplies and green cleaning products that we can share with others!