Harmful or Beneficial? Exploring the World of Consumable Wild Greens
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Susannah Shmurak's July 14, 2016 garden article introduces a variety of eco-friendly gardening products designed to promote sustainable, ergonomic, and efficient gardening practices. Each product offers specific benefits and has best practices that maximize their effectiveness in gardening.
Natural Cedar L-Shaped Raised Garden Beds
Made from naturally rot-resistant cedar, these raised beds offer durability, superior strength with stainless steel corner pins, and an ergonomic U-shaped design that maximizes growing space with a central pathway for easy access. The integrated trellis supports vertical gardening, increases planting area, and provides privacy and support for climbing plants. They elevate gardening height to reduce bending and kneeling, enhancing accessibility and comfort. The cedar construction is chemical-free and long-lasting, backed by a 5-year warranty.
Stack boards to desired height (11–22 inches) based on crop type. Use the trellis for vertical plants like beans or vines. Position the bed in a sunny location with good drainage. Consider adding hardware cloth underneath for pest protection. Maintain soil quality by mixing compost and monitoring moisture.
Jora JK270 Composter
This hot composting unit accelerates the breakdown of organic waste through aerobic thermophilic composting, producing nutrient-rich compost more quickly than cold methods. It enhances garden soil fertility naturally while reducing waste.
Regularly turn the compost to ensure aeration and uniform decomposition. Maintain appropriate moisture and balance of greens and browns. Use finished compost to enrich raised beds or garden soil.
Corn Gluten Organic Fertilizer
Acting as a pre-emergent weed control while providing a source of nitrogen and organic matter to the soil, Corn Gluten Organic Fertilizer reduces weed growth naturally without herbicides and supports healthy plant growth.
Apply early in the growing season before weed seeds germinate. Water after application to activate it. Use as part of an integrated soil management program with other organic amendments.
Worm Factory 360 Composter
A worm composting system that converts kitchen scraps into high-quality worm castings, enhancing soil microbial life and fertility, the Worm Factory 360 Composter has a small footprint, is odor-free, and suitable for indoor use.
Feed appropriate organic waste (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds), avoid meats/dairy. Keep the compost moist and aerated. Harvest worm castings regularly to apply to garden beds or potted plants.
Stainless Steel Compost Keeper
Durable, rust-resistant container for storing compost indoors or outdoors temporarily, the Stainless Steel Compost Keeper helps contain odors and pests while compost matures. It keeps compost accessible for garden use.
Empty frequently to prevent compaction and odors. Keep in a shaded, ventilated area. Use compost promptly to feed garden beds.
Farmstead Raised Garden Bed
Efficient growing space for vegetables with raised soil improving drainage and root health, the Farmstead Raised Garden Bed is often made with durable, untreated wood or composite material for longevity.
Install on level ground, fill with organic-rich soil mix. Rotate crops annually to prevent disease build-up. Mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Wildflower Farms Eco-Lawn Grass Seed
Organic or natural lawn seed that produces durable, drought-resistant grass with reduced need for fertilizer and watering, the Wildflower Farms Eco-Lawn Grass Seed supports pollinators if wildflowers are included.
Prepare the soil by removing debris and loosening topsoil. Sow during appropriate season for your region. Water regularly until established. Avoid heavy traffic until grass is strong.
Premium Drinking Water Safe Garden Hose
Made of materials safe for drinking water to prevent contamination, the Premium Drinking Water Safe Garden Hose ensures safe irrigation of edible plants. It is durable and flexible.
Store properly to prevent kinks and cracks. Flush hose before first use. Avoid leaving water standing in hose for long times.
VegTrug Raised Garden Planter
Elevated planter designed to minimize bending, ideal for growing herbs and small vegetables, the VegTrug Raised Garden Planter is made from durable and weather-resistant materials with good drainage.
Position in full sun. Use a high-quality potting mix with compost. Water consistently and mulch to reduce moisture loss.
Overall, these products support sustainable, ergonomic, and efficient gardening practices by improving soil control, plant health, pest and weed management, and ease of use. Raised beds, in particular, offer enhanced soil conditions, improved drainage, and accessibility that benefit gardeners of all skill levels and physical abilities. Proper maintenance like soil amendment, pest prevention, and seasonal adjustments ensures these tools maximize garden success.
- Combining the Natural Cedar L-Shaped Raised Garden Beds and the VegTrug Raised Garden Planter (mentioned earlier in the text), these elevated garden beds can reduce the need for bending and kneeling, promoting an ergonomic lifestyle while cultivating various plants.
- After planting herbs or vegetables using VegTrug Raised Garden Planters (as mentioned above), one could consider applying Corn Gluten Organic Fertilizer (also mentioned earlier), which helps in pre-emergent weed control and enhances the soil's nitrogen content, benefiting the overall health of the plants.
