by Tim Miller
Since the introduction of organic farming to the U.S. by
J.J. Rodale in the 1940s, the practice has gained momen-
tum year after year. My farm joined the movement in 1991
and has been certified organic ever since. The USDA now
reports the fantastic news that some 4.1 million acres with-
in the U.S. are farmed organically.
So how can all of the gardeners in Travis and Hays county
emulate this example?
It begins with soil – the life blood of the organic industry.
From nurturing your earthworms to mulching your beds,
your care for the soil is going to be critical to the success
of your veggie garden.
Mulch should be thought of as a top priority. In the summ-
er months, it alone solves the problem of the build-up of
heat around the roots. It also helps the soil absorb moisture.
However there is a downside to mulch. It can protect and
encourage harmful insects – especially under fruit trees.
When cold spells hit, the best thing to do is loosen up that
mulch. This will help to expose and freeze harmful insects,
such as the notorious 'plum curculio' beetle, destroyer of
fruit crops.
Putting row covers on your crops the day before freezing
weather may be good for the plants – but be aware that it
can also offer a sanctuary from the cold to harmful insect
life.
Earthworms, a key component to a successful garden, re-
quire organic matter and safe places to stay warm. At my
farm, instead of compost piles I created trenches through-
out the property, filled with woodchips and garden debris.
These become safe havens for worms during the hot seas-
on. A norm for me is to dig specific beds next to trenches
to encourage worms to have freshly dug soil to move to.
There may be some extra challenges for the people in the
new subdivisions in Hays County. Many are built on chem-
ically worn-out farmland – where the soil is suffering after
years of chemical abuse.
However it is never too late to start nursing your garden
back towards recovery and good health using organic
farming practices. Happy organic gardening everyone!❦
(Tim Miller owns Millberg Farm in Kyle)
