Organic Plant Food and Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

Why We Need Fertilizer

Plants do need a whole host of mineral nutrients to sustain healthy growth; most soils do contain a balance of minerals. A soil may be lacking in some of them, and adding fertilizer will enhance the plants growth and performance. Millions of people do live near the sea or go on vacation with a trailer to seaside locations and seaweed is the best Organic Fertilizer on the market. This is because it contains natural nitrogen minerals which are not found in very many other organic fertilizers.

Organic

After working for several years for a seaweed manufacturer I am about to blow the lid and you can discover how easy it really is to make your own fertilizer.

Organic Plant Food and Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

How to Make Your Own Fertilizer

Equipment needed:

· 1 medium sized bin about 25 litres, 5 gallon.

· Food processor.

· Oven or grill (optional).

· Kitchen foil.

· Oven trays.

· Scraps of wood to fit into the inside of the bin.

· A cutting tool i.e. a saw.

· Something heavy in my case I use bricks.

Product needed:

· Seaweed bubbly type preferably (more extract/juice comes out) 7 Kg, 14 Lb

· Food preservative (optional)

OK you've got the equipment and product together

· Cut out a scrap of wood that will fit in the bin a quarter of the way up from the floor.

· Put in the bricks to support the wood and create a new floor for the bin.

· Make sure the wood is not a tight fit.

· Liquidize the seaweed about 1 Kg, 2.2 lb at a time in the food processor.

· Use blades that will give you a rough finish (you don't want it too smooth).

· Add minced up seaweed to your upgraded bin.

· Repeat this process until your bin is full.

· Clean out the food processor as the seaweed contains a high level of salt

· Cut another scrap of wood to fit inside the top of the bid (about 5" from each side of the bin).

· Put the bin outside and load the bricks on top.

· Leave for 2 days.

The top of the bin (oven)

· Unpack the bricks and transport the seaweed into an oven tray with kitchen foil on.

· Place in a pre heated oven at 200°C, 392 °F.

· Cook for half an hour or until really crispy but not burnt.

· Grind up (optional).

· Add water 40 grams diluted with water makes up to 20 litres of seaweed liquid feed.

· Or add straight to the soil.

The top of the bin (without oven)

· Unpack the bricks and transport the seaweed straight onto the soil and mix in.

The bottom of the bin

· This is where the liquid extract will be.

· Add Food preservative or can place in freezer or use within 4 weeks and store in fridge.

· Add water in a watering can up to an amazing 80 to 1 mix

I have searched the web for instructions on how to make my own seaweed extract and I think this is the first detail instructions on how to make organic fertilizer seaweed extract and seaweed powder/granules. Seaweed granules can also be used as animal feed, seaweed powder can be used alongside pet food just sprinkle some in and this increases there fertility rate as well as help smelly pet breath.

Organic Plant Food and Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

I think in this day and age techniques are lost on making your own products and everybody should have a chance to be organic seaweedproducts.co.uk Only when your night-shift do you realize at the end of the day, is start of the shift.and having the wrong tool for the right job is better than no tools at all

Natural & Organic Fruit Tree Sprays

Fruit trees should be sprayed in early spring before the bud opens in order to kill overwintering insects/insect eggs nestled in the crevices of your fruit trees. However, in order to safeguard your health and that of the environment, consider using one of the environmentally safe natural or organic fruit tree sprays which are every bit as capable of killing overwintering insects and insect larvae. Any of the following organic and natural fruit tree sprays will do the job: a lime sulfur/horticultural oil mixture, a horticultural oil/water mixture, and a homemade spray made up of natural ingredients.

Organic Fruit Tree Sprays

Organic

The first type of organic fruit tree sprays, the lime sulfur/horticultural oil mixture, can sometimes be bought premixed, but you can also buy a kit and mix the two. The lime sulfur is a natural fungicide which kills dormant fungus spores or bacteria. The horticultural oil is used to smother all overwintering insects and/or the eggs.

Natural & Organic Fruit Tree Sprays

This combination spray must be used early in the spring before the buds swell and break open; otherwise you risk burning the new leaf. Also it can be sprayed only if the temperature remains between 0 degrees Celsius (32 F) and 20 degrees Celsius (about 70 F) for at least 24 hours because the oil part of the spray needs time to smother insects or their eggs. A cold night will break down the oil before it has a chance to be effective. However if it happens to freeze after the 24 hour period, there is no harm done.

Spray when there is very little or no wind, and no rain, snow, or sleet in the forecast. Read instructions carefully and cover yourself well because it can be a messy job when you spray your tree from the top down until it drips. In addition, the lime sulphur has a strong smell, so wear clothes you can wash.

A second type of organic fruit tree sprays, the horticultural oil/water mixture, can be used not only in early spring but also throughout the summer as long as the spraying is done early in the morning when the weather is cooler and the tree has cooled off. This mixture is far less messy than the first one.

Natural Fruit Tree Spray

You can always opt out of this messiness by making your own mixture with natural ingredients from your kitchen cupboard or bought at a gardening center. One spray mixture which is easy to make and which can be used in the spring or at any time during the summer months includes liquid seaweed (found in plant nurseries) blackstrap molasses (the kind you use for cooking), apple cider vinegar, and Murphy soap - all added to a gallon of water.

The seaweed and the molasses not only fight fungal disease in the garden but also feed the plant through the leaves (called foliar feeding) especially if you are spraying really early in the morning when the leaf pores are still open.

You needn't worry about the molasses attracting bugs. The plants absorb the molasses instantly. Boom it's gone! The fruit trees just love it!

The acidity of the vinegar helps kill black spot on roses, powdery mildew, brown patch, and other nasty fungi.

So instead of spraying your fruit trees with poisonous insecticides/pesticides, you may want to consider using the dormant spray combination of lime sulfur and horticultural oil, the dormant horticultural oil/water mixture, or a spray made up of natural ingredients, a spray which not only smothers the insects/insect eggs and fights fungal diseases but also feeds the tree.

Natural & Organic Fruit Tree Sprays

Bio: A gardener for years, Marcie has learned that getting rid of overwintering insects/fungal diseases in early spring is necessary. Find out more about Natural & Organic Fruit Tree Sprays

Organic Food History and Current Trends

Farming practices used before the 1900's are classed as organic. It was only after this that added chemicals such as urea and DDT were brought into farming - previous to this, farmers didn't have the knowledge and simply put, were happy enough with things as they were; as most of us today would be. After all, home grown food is often the nicest, most tasty food we put on our plates.

For some reason, during the 1960's and 1970's the concept of organic food became a separate entity to the 'normal' food we were then buying. Consumers had been effectively duped into believing that what they were buying, was food as nature intended, it not appreciating that the chemicals which were added during growth of the 'normal stuff' were what actually made the food abnormal in the first place.

Organic

Rachel Carson, a prominent writer, biologist and ecologist established public awareness of these issues via 'Silent Spring', a book she wrote which basically brought about major controversy on the use of agricultural chemicals and synthetic pesticides in particular. As a direct result of this book, and the growing concern over the use of farm chemicals which consumers were suddenly more aware of, chemical regulation procedures were put into place, and when the demand for organically grown food rose, so did the need for further regulatory procedures to cut down on the ecologically destructive and toxic chemicals.

Organic Food History and Current Trends

Today, organic food is finally reaching an all time high of acceptance from consumers, so its demand is increasing - more 'organically acceptable' agricultural procedures are gaining momentum, and it seems even though it is more expensive than chemically treated foodstuffs, it is healthier, and it is that health factor which is winning the battle against chemically treated consumables.

A creation of a whole new set of ideas about organic standards which first came into debate in 1990, took over ten years to refine to relative perfection, and they will still evolve as new practices come into force. It is by these standards now that, organic food and other products such as wool in the USA is grown/gathered.

All of this though begs the questions - why can't farmers just grow food without chemicals at all, why does it need regulation, and why were chemicals introduced into grown food and other consumables in the first place; I think you already know the answer though, and that's money.

In this modern technological age where farmers are in direct competition between each other to gain the bigger contracts of the supermarkets and other food retailers, they have to be cheap. They simply can't grow the vegetables (for example) as fast as the grocery store can sell them, so they have to resort to other methods to keep up, or did do at least until the consumers voice began to ring out strong and true.

Organic food is no longer a small niche in the food desires of Americans; it is becoming what everyone wants. Everyone now wants and feels the need to eat in a more healthy fashion with the onset of so many new medical conditions which prove costly as it is; a little more expense to eat something grown without strong use of chemicals (which could 'theoretically' make it worse) might mean a saving health-wise instead.

The organic food trend of today is growing ever-stronger, and not just for vegetables even though at one point organic purchases totalled over 40% of all organic buys. Meat and fish which is organically produced is still at the lowest of all food purchases, but is moving up the chain too. Dairy, bread and grain, beverages and snacks are all becoming more and more popular.

Today there are more Organic supermarkets popping up everywhere, sometimes in certain areas more than others - almost as though people in one state are more 'organic' than others but on the whole it is more of a blanket change than just a few people trying to eat in a healthier way, the amount of people eating organically is far more substantial than most realize. Suddenly people have more choice, and this is obviously because the demand is there. The world is finally going organic, and with any luck the bigger grocery store chains will have to meet this demand, rather than flood the market with low-cost chemically treated alternatives.

Organic Food History and Current Trends

Carl Copeland is motivated to bringing information and resources to others regarding Food Storage, Food Safety, and Food Preparation and its benefits for everyday life. Save money by having your food last longer. More Info at http://www.Food-Storage-Info.com

Organic Hormone Replacement Therapy For Women - The Natural Alternative To Risky Hormone Treatments

Menopause is one of the most irritating and discomforting times of an adult women's life. If you were to ask any women they would gratefully accept any product that would bring relief to their hot flashes, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. The problem with this is that in their quest to bring balance to their lives women have subjected themselves to unnecessary risk. This is especially true after recent studies indicate an increased risk for women developing cancer after taking hormone replacement therapy that includes estrogen, progesterone and other steroid hormones.

Why Do Women Take HRT?

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1. To help alleviate symptom of pre-and-post menopause which include:

Organic Hormone Replacement Therapy For Women - The Natural Alternative To Risky Hormone Treatments

  • Hot Flashes
  • Trouble sleeping
  • To prevent calcium depletion and fractures (especially of the hip)

2. To boost mental and physical health overall
  • To reduce and eliminate mood swings, irritability and emotional ups-and-downs
  • To bring balance to the body by regulating hormones
  • To increase energy levels and libido

Is There A Risk In Taking HRT?

Yes, if you are taking a hormone replacement therapy that includes the use of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. While it is noted that there is an advantage to taking HRT, above and beyond the benefits of reducing and eliminating hot flashes, such as a a decrease in hip fractures and rectal cancers, HRT treatment still poses a considerable risk for many women. For all the health risks that hormone replacement therapy warrants women are still undermining their health by taking hormone pills with estrogen and progesterone.

Are There Alternative Treatments Available for Women?

Yes there are alternative treatments for women; more specifically there are all-natural, organic alternative hormone treatments available. Any woman considering HRT should take a closer look at one of the all-natural hormone replacement products available such as Avlimil. Avlimil is an all-natural alternative for women to treat their menopause symptoms in the most organic way possible. These botanical ingredients work with your body to restore energy levels and bring balance to your bodies internal system. Avlimil does not contain any steroid hormone treatment including testosterone, progesterone and estrogen.

Organic Hormone Replacement Therapy For Women - The Natural Alternative To Risky Hormone Treatments

If you are looking for relief from night sweats and emotional ups-and downs and would like to see a reduction in your menopause symptoms without risking your health then take a more in-depth look at your all natural hormone replacement therapy options like Avlimil, visit www.libidounlimited.com today for more information on hormone supplements, libido supplements and female sexual enhancement creams.

http://www.libidounlimited.com

Honey - The Difference Between Organic and Conventional

This sweet glistening liquid is found in most Australian cupboards. Most people have often wondered what the difference is between conventional and organic honey. Here are a few facts that may open your eyes about this ancient commodity.

Conventional Honey
Short supply of honey in Australia means honey packaged under an Australian brand does not mean it has been produced here (and often not clear on the labelling). There is concern of the fact that imported honey is produced in genetically engineered crops (Argentina is a major producer of GE canola and other flowering GE crops). GE crops in Australia pose a threat to both conventional and organic honey production. Using antibiotics in bee keeping is common to treat disease and chemical bee repellents are used. Heat treating is also common in conventional honey production and there is no limit on the temperature to which honey can be exposed. Supermarket's do not like honey crystallising on the shelves although this a natural occurrence and a good sign that it's untainted, we often think when honey crystallises it has gone off. Heat treating keeps the honey clear and runny and destroys some of the delicate anti-oxidants and enzymes that are naturally present in honey.

Organic

Organic Honey
Certified Organic beekeepers are required to ensure their hives are a safe distance from anything that can contaminate the honey, such as garbage dumps, livestock watering troughs, urban areas, golf courses, conventional orchards and crops, and GE crops. Although bees don't require feeding, in bad conditions (particularly cold periods), some feeding using organic sugar or sugar syrup is used. No chemical bee repellents are used, but natural methods (such as burning leaf litter). Unlike conventional bees, organic bees are unable to be treated with antibiotics or other conventional veterinary methods. Heat treatment of organic honey cannot exceed 45 degrees C.

Honey - The Difference Between Organic and Conventional

Health Benefits
Apart from having a superior flavour, organic honey oozes a range of health benefits. A carbohydrate, it provides energy at a reasonable steady rate with a glycaemic index (GI) rating in the moderate range. Nutritionally superior to sugar, honey contains enzymes, vitamins, minerals and free radical antioxidants.

Honey - The Difference Between Organic and Conventional

Scott Butler
Owner of Organic Home Delivery Service Organic Angels
http://www.organicangels.com/blog

Organic Plant Food & Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

Why We Need Fertilizer

Plants do need a whole host of mineral nutrients to sustain healthy growth; most soils do contain a balance of minerals. A soil may be lacking in some of them, and adding fertilizer will enhance the plants growth and performance.  Millions of people do live near the sea or go on vacation with a trailer to seaside locations and seaweed is the best Organic Fertilizer on the market. This is because it contains natural nitrogen minerals which are not found in very many other organic fertilizers.

Organic

After working for several years for a seaweed manufacturer I am about to blow the lid and you can discover how easy it really is to make your own fertilizer.

Organic Plant Food & Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

How to Make Your Own Fertilizer

Equipment needed:

·         1 medium sized bin about 25 litres, 5 gallon.
·         Food processor.
·         Oven or grill (optional).
·         Kitchen foil.
·         Oven trays.
·         Scraps of wood to fit into the inside of the bin.
·         A cutting tool i.e. a saw.
·         Something heavy in my case I use bricks.

Product needed:

·         Seaweed bubbly type preferably (more extract/juice comes out) 7 Kg, 14 Lb
·         Food preservative (optional)

OK you've got the equipment and product together

·         Cut out a scrap of wood that will fit in the bin a quarter of the way up from the floor.
·         Put in the bricks to support the wood and create a new floor for the bin.
·         Make sure the wood is not a tight fit.
·         Liquidize the seaweed about 1 Kg, 2.2 lb at a time in the food processor.
·         Use blades that will give you a rough finish (you don't want it too smooth).
·         Add minced up seaweed to your upgraded bin.
·         Repeat this process until your bin is full.
·         Clean out food processor as seaweed contain a high level of salt that may rust some metal blades. ·         Cut another scrap of wood to fit inside the top of the bid (about 5 inches from each side of the bin). ·         Put the bin outside and load the bricks on top.
·         Leave for 2 days.

The top of the bin (oven)

·         Unpack the bricks and transport the seaweed into an oven tray with kitchen foil on.
·         Place in a pre heated oven at 200°C, 392 °F.
·         Cook for half an hour or until really crispy but not burnt.
·         Grind up (optional).
·         Add water 40 grams diluted with water makes up to 20 litres of seaweed liquid feed.
·         Or add straight to the soil.

The top of the bin (without oven)

·         Unpack the bricks and transport the seaweed straight onto the soil and mix in.

The bottom of the bin

·         This is where the liquid extract will be.
·         Add Food preservative or can place in freezer or use within 4 weeks and store in fridge.
·         Add water up to an amazing 80 to 1 mix.

I have searched the web for instructions on how to make my own seaweed extract and I think this is the first detail instructions on how to make organic fertilizer seaweed extract and seaweed powder/granules. Seaweed granules can also be used as animal feed, seaweed powder can be used alongside pet food just sprinkle some in and this increases there fertility rate as well as help smelly pet breath.

Organic Plant Food & Fertilizer - How to Make Organic Seaweed Fertilizer Extract - Granules

I think in this day and age techniques are lost on making your own products and everybody should have a chance to be organic. To see what the finished products are like or save time and order a product just click on the link http://www.seaweedproducts.co.uk/

Interesting Facts About Organic Foods

There is plenty of great information out there about organic foods. The problem though is that not all of it is true. Here are some interesting facts about organic foods that you will find to be very useful. That information can also help you to decide if you want to take advantage of buying such products or not.

It may surprise you to discover that only about 2% of the food in the world is organically grown. That is why you can't always find a huge supply of it locally. That is also part of the reason why they prices are so high for them. Don't let this low percentage fool you though because about million annually is coming in for such food items.

Organic

In the United States, the movements of organic foods are very high and many manufacturers are looking into it. This is the area where most of the organic foods are grown. Today about 70% of grocery stores out there offer some form of organic foods. It may surprise you that there is a huge demand for organic cream and yogurt products.

Interesting Facts About Organic Foods

It isn't just the United States though where organic foods are selling well. Other areas include Canada, Italy, and the UK. It is believed that within the next decade you will find some forms of organic foods being grown and distributed throughout every country in the world. Australia has a very large sector of land where organic foods are grown and it is believed that more land will be allocated for that purpose over the next five years.

Many people are surprised though to learn that the biggest country for organic production of foods is Germany. This is due to the fact that they often have problems with their soil and producing foods because of it. Organic methods though do help them to have soil that is very nutritious. In Europe the movement for more organic foods has to do with the conscious choices of society. They don't want to contribute the addition of chemicals to the food they eat or to the environment if there is a better alternative.

The process of converting farm land from conventional methods though to organic methods is very time consuming. This is why it is taking a while for the numbers out there to steadily increase. On average that process takes five years to complete. A farmer can't just wake up on day and say that he has decided to only grow organic products. Unfortunately the process isn't that easy to complete.

At least 70% of people in the United States have purchased or consumed some form of organic food. They don't find there is much of a difference when it comes to the taste of it. One fruit that seems to be sweeter by many reports though is the apple. Organic foods do spoil faster though because they don't have wax or other preservatives on them. They can also be smaller than others due to that growing process not being sped up through chemicals.

Products that are 95% or higher in ratings according to the USDA can get the label to place on their food products as being organic. Most consumers don't bother to look at those labels though so they are buying what they believe are organic foods but they really aren't. Learning this information should make you interested in finding out more about the process for organic food labeling. You want to be confident that what you buy is the real thing. Why pay for foods that you think are organic when they only contain some elements of what will make them so?

Interesting Facts About Organic Foods

Organic food becomes a good choice by more and more people. The Organic Grocer is an online organic food Sydney based retailer. They provide fresh organic fruit and vegetable. They deliver organic food penrith and organic food blue mountains.

How To Raise Pigs Using Organic Farming - Know The Advantages Before You Start Raising Pigs

Consumers are becoming aware of the health benefits of organic vegetables and organic meat. Now you can go to the market and select between commercial and organic products. But why buy if you can produce? Due to the growing popularity of organic farming, farm owners and hog raisers are switching to organic pig farming and organic feeds. Cooperatives are constantly giving seminars and programs on how to raise pigs using organic methods.

One of the traditional ways on how to raise pigs is as simple as letting them graze in pastures and open range farms. In here, pigs are allowed to grazed grass, plants, and even herbs as its food. The idea is to utilize the natural ventilation and the sun to provide better environment for the pigs. These also serve as an exercise for the pigs to keep them healthy and leaner.

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The open range farms also make sure that clean and beneficial plants are scattered around the pasture. Plants like lemongrass and guava leaves are good for the pigs digestive system while turmeric produce tender and juicy meat. Pigs are also introduce to organic diets which include organic corn, flax seed, buckwheat, barley, roasted soybeans, and vitamins and minerals designed for organic production. Corn shots are also given several days before butchering to integrate a sweeter taste to the meat.

How To Raise Pigs Using Organic Farming - Know The Advantages Before You Start Raising Pigs

Organic farming eliminates the consumption of antibiotics, hormones, and animal products, which can cause certain diseases both to the pigs and the consumers.

De-worming of pigs can also be natural. Garlic is a good alternative for antibiotics and commercial dewormers. Mince the garlic and mix directly to the feeds. Ongoing treatment is recommended to eliminate the worms and prevent them from coming back.

Wondering how to raise pigs at home? If you do not have a grazing land but live near an organic farm then your problem is solved. Purchasing directly from organic farms and farmer's market assures you of fresh produce. Sometimes organic farms also allow fellow farmers to use their land, as the pigs' manure can be instant compost for their plants. You can also purchase fruits in the market as a treat for the pigs.

One of the drawbacks of organic farming is the cost. Organic feeds cost more than conventional feeds. If you stay within the pasture area, it may cost a little lower but this will not ensure a proper diet for the pigs. The high cost of organic pig farming will also affect the selling price when it gets in the market. Diseases that require antibiotics may be substituted by natural remedies but sometimes cannot be prevented to cure the sick pigs.

Organic farming is a natural way on how to raise pigs. Pigs produce from organic farms are leaner and healthier. You are assured that it is fresh and is not touched by toxic antibiotics or genetically modified food. Although it may cost more to produce, the benefits and assurance that you get from organic farming cannot be upended by non-organic and commercially produced products.

How To Raise Pigs Using Organic Farming - Know The Advantages Before You Start Raising Pigs

So keep these points in mind. You will find that learning more about how to raise pigs does not need to be difficult when you're learning from someone who have experienced. Learn more tips on how to raise pigs here: http://www.howtoraisepigs.com

Don't forget to claim your FREE "Pig Basics 101 - Everything You Ever Needed To Know About Pigs, But Didn't Know Who To Ask" eReport!

Organic Gardening - How to Control Stink Bugs on Tomatoes

The stink bug is a common pest with tomato plants and other plants in the garden. I North America alone there are 250 species and worldwide there have been over 4,700 species described in almost 900 genera. They live throughout the world in our fields, meadows and yards and can be controlled by a few different methods in organic gardening.

It is the member of the bug family pentatomidae and easily recognize with having a shield like body. There life cycle like all hemipterans undergo simple metamorphosis with three stages that are the egg, nymph and adult. Eggs are laid in groups on plant stems and the underside of leaves. The nymph look very similar to the adult but have a rounder rather than shield shape body. The nymphs go through 5 instars before becoming an adult and this all happens in a 4 - 5 week period. A major problem in gardens is that the adult stink bug will overwinter in the garden under debris, boards, logs or even leaf litter. There are some species that the nymph will do the same.

Organic

A stink bugs diet in a garden can be devastating. They use there piercing mouth part to suck sap from the leaves, stems and fruit of plants and can cause injury to them. The stink bug actually begins it's life as a herbivores and then becomes a predator. As a predator it will overpower caterpillars and beetle larva and keep pest insects in check.

Organic Gardening - How to Control Stink Bugs on Tomatoes

The defense system against other predators is it's smell. They expel a foul smelling compound from there thoracic gland when threatened. This smell sends a chemical message to other stink bugs that there is danger in the area and it can also suppress the attack of harmful microorganisms. This scent also plays a role in the attraction of mates.

There are organic methods to aid in the control of the stink bug. These methods include companion planting, trap planting, washing and spraying.

Companion planting is one of the best methods to prevent the stink bug from getting into your garden. This is simply done by planting herbs and other natural deterrent plants with your crop that will repel stink bugs, like marigolds, chrysanthemums, garlic, lavender, mints and thyme.

Another method that will keep the stink bug off your plants and deter them from your garden is to simply wash the plants with straight water daily for about a week.

There are sprays that can also be made by mixing either vegetable oil, olive oil or even lavender oil with 1/2 water and spray your tomatoes.

Trap planting is a method that attracts the stink bug to a location away from your garden. The stink bugs is know to like the color yellow. Crops other that your common crops you plant in your garden like sunflowers, buckwheat, triticale, sorghum and millet are plants that will attract the stink bug to a location that you can deal with them.

Fall cleanup of the garden is very important in pest control in an organic garden. Leaving debris in the garden give them the perfect environment to overwinter.

Organic Gardening - How to Control Stink Bugs on Tomatoes

A environment friendly and healthy way of gardening. Organic Gardening is away of gardening in harmony with nature. Growing a healthy and productive crop in a way that is healthier for both you and the environment.

John Yazo

[http://www.organicheirloomgardening.com]

Mushroom Compost - 7 Organic Vegetable Garden Benefits

Spent mushroom compost, also know as "spent mushroom substrate" or "mushroom soil," is fast growing in popularity for organic soil amending. Crops thrive with 7 organic vegetable garden benefits of mushroom compost. Generally containing coconut hulls, hay, corn cobs, cottonseed meal, poultry manure and straw horse bedding, the pure compost is dark, rich and odorless.

1) Completely recycled
This compost is the discarded after mushrooms have grown in it. Fresh compost can only be used once to grow mushrooms, so the used or spent compost must be disposed of. One excellent way to recycle these "leftovers" is to nourish your vegetable garden. Considered a renewable alternative to peat moss, recycled compost can also help save the peat bogs' delicate ecological balance.

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2) Adds organic matter to the soil
Just like regular organic garden compost, microbial activity is created as it breaks down, creating humus. Excellent at breaking up clay soil, amend generously in your soil to create a rich loamy texture. Remember that all organics continue to break down. After a few months you may need to add a top layer to container plants. A 3 to 6 inch outdoor application is expected to last 2 to 5 years.

Mushroom Compost - 7 Organic Vegetable Garden Benefits

3) Drought resistant
Compost conserves moisture to plants by increasing the capacity to hold water, while aerating the soil at the same time. The fungal activity of previous mushroom growing creates a moist barrier against drought and searing heat. This is excellent for vegetable gardens by improving soil structure and saving water costs, especial in arid zones.

4) Controls Garden Pests
Mushroom compost is organic matter that creates good microbial action. Beneficial microbes in turn encourage beneficial insects, earth worm activity and discourage diseases. All these natural controls help gardeners avoid the use of potentially dangerous garden chemicals that can harm our earth and threaten our family and pet health.

5) Fast growing plants and vegetables
Research shows beneficial fungus or mycorrhizae work with plants to produce synergistic energy that results in rapid growth. Since spent mushroom compost used to host mushrooms, it is full of this good fungus and reports abound about fantastic plant growth. Naturally low in nitrogen, mushroom compost does not encourage over leafy growth, making it ideal for flower bearing plants like vegetables.

6) Weed free
Mushrooms must be grown in medium that has been sterilized and composted, so the left over compost is weed and plant pathogen free. This makes perfect mulch for vegetable and flower gardens, trees, shrubs and top dressings for existing lawns. With this compost you can be confident you are not bringing in unwanted weed seeds to compete with your plants.

7) Pleasant smelling
Properly made and stored, this compost does not smell bad. In fact, it has an almost sweet smell when fresh. Even that odor quickly dissipates once put in the ground. A refreshing relief for gardeners every where who may be used to cow or poultry manures as organic fertilizer. No longer will your neighbors shoot you dirty looks for growing organic. If spent mushroom compost has a foul odor, don't use it unless you re-compost.

Mushroom Compost - 7 Organic Vegetable Garden Benefits

Rhonda Abrons bags spent mushroom compost in Austin, Texas. For more information and a free sample of 100% spent mushroom compost, visit [http://mushroomcompostblog.com]

How to Make Your Own Organic Fungicide

Making your own organic fungicide is far easier than you might think and you've very likely got everything you need right at home. One of the reasons I like to make my own garden tonics is because I want to know just what I'm going to be eating later. Most organic treatments can be applied to plants right until the day of harvest without any harm to those eating the fruits or vegetables, even children. I know a lot of chemical products seem to be work faster and sometimes seems more effective than the organic variations, but if I can save myself a trip to the garden store while I keep my plants healthy AND have a little peace of mind, I'm going to go for it. Plus, organic fungicide  is just plain cheap to make!

When our tomatoes got late blight, this recipe saved a few of our plants when I thought there was absolutely no more hope. I also sprayed most of our other plants in the garden (especially watermelon, zucchini, eggplants and grapes)  that looked like they had powdery mildew or other fungus problems and they started looking better (and producing better) within a couple days. To get the best level of protection, you will need to reapply this solution about once a week and especially after it rains.  In fact, if you want to be certain that your plants will not get attacked with fungi, you should be spraying them routinely as soon as you put them in the ground BEFORE anything beings to attack them. If you are combating a very aggressive fungus problem (like blight) you should try to spray the plants daily. Spray plants in early morning or late day when the sun is least intense to prevent leaf burn. This homemade organic fungicide is also effective against anthrocnose, powdery mildew, early tomato blight, leaf blight and spots.

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Organic fungicide
Ingredients

  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil

How to Make Your Own Organic Fungicide

Directions

  1. Pour ingredients into a large sprayer and shake well. Spray on affected plants (top and bottom of leaves). Continue to shake ingredients periodically to ensure it says well mixed.

How to Make Your Own Organic Fungicide

Tiffany Muehlbauer has a 1000 square foot garden plus a small orchard to practice her organic gardening skills on. She has been working toward a more self-sufficient and natural lifestyle for the past 5 years. The addition of a daughter to her family about a year ago has greatly increased her desire to live more organically and to free her home and garden of chemicals. You can read more about this American's experiences living in an antique farmhouse in Germany on her blog http://www.NoOrdinaryHomestead.com Not only will you find more about organic gardening but you will also find information about home renovation, parenting, European travel and more.

Organic Gardening - Tips You Should Know When Using Straw Mulch

There are many benefits in mulching your organic garden. Straw mulch is excellent for helping to retain moisture in soil by stopping the water from evaporating. It can be used to suppress weeds, but needs to be applied in a thick layer about four to six inches thick. Once the straw is applied it has to be soaked so that the wind wont blow it away when applied directly from a bale.

When using straw mulch fresh from a bale it is best used when shredded before applied to the garden and should be removed before tilling your soil. A thin layer of straw mulch will slow the spring time warming of the soil, removing the mulch and compost it after the growing season, then reapply new mulch after soil temperatures have warmed.

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Straw mulch can tie up nitrogen at the surface of soil during it's decomposition process. Due to this you should use straw around fruit trees and avoid using it around your annual plants or to avoid this from happening use already rotting straw. Leaving straw bales outdoors over the winter months will allow this rotting process to take place due to the wet and dry conditions of nature. This will also help to kill off any weed seeds that may be in the bales. Make sure when you apply straw you keep it fluffed up instead of it's compacted form that it comes in with a bale.

Organic Gardening - Tips You Should Know When Using Straw Mulch

Straw can be purchased at your local garden center. When purchasing straw make sure it is seed and weed free.

Organic Gardening - Tips You Should Know When Using Straw Mulch

A environment friendly and healthy way of gardening. Organic Gardening is away of gardening in harmony with nature. Growing a healthy and productive crop in a way that is healthier for both you and the environment.

John Yazo

[http://www.organicheirloomgardening.com]

Fruits and Vegetables That Heal Eczema - Eczema Organic - Natural Treatment

Did you know that one third of eczema suffers are cause by nutrient deficiencies? Lack nutrients can strike skin eczema. The reason is simple; our skin needs nutrients, so it can remain smooth and healthy.

When the skin finds hard to receive vital nutrients, the skin self defence system can not perform their task and as a result, eczema starts.

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You see our skin self defence system, need some kind of energy to work, just like cars needs petrol to run. And how do we get those nutrients? By eating of course!

Fruits and Vegetables That Heal Eczema - Eczema Organic - Natural Treatment

So you see our skin requires nutrients, but only 2 are vital for our skin defence systems and they are:

· Vitamin E

· Aloe Vera

If you have eczema them you are probably using creams to relief from itching, but did you ever wondered why creams works so well? Let me tell you why! The reason is that these creams are enforced with these 2 vital nutrients artificially!

So why expending hundreds on artificial products to cure eczema if you can cure it naturally by consuming natural and organic products such as fruits and vegetables! And fruits and vegetables as you know are very healthy products. Many people tried this healthy approach and they successfully got relief from eczema for ever! This approach is getting more and more popular and day by day people are filling more healthy and itchy free.

Below are some of the fruits and vegetables example that you should eat to get relief from eczema, as they are rich in vitamin E and Aloe Vera, they are:

· Blackberries

· Avocado

· Plums

· Almonds

· Hazel nuts

· Peanuts

· Broccoli

· Leeks

· Spinach

· Potato

If you want to know more about how to cure eczema naturally and organically I strongly suggest visiting cure eczema using fruits and vegetables diet website.

Fruits and Vegetables That Heal Eczema - Eczema Organic - Natural Treatment

For more information about how to get relief from eczema, visit http://www.eczemacuretoday.com - subscribe to weekly newsletter to receive latest tips to cure eczema naturally, as well as a free e-book "Get Relief from Itching".

Heart Disease - What Is The Difference Between Organic Heart Disease And Degenerative Heart Disease?

Although Heart Disease is the main cause of death in the Western World it is amazing how little the general public actually know about it.

For example very few people realize that there isn't just one type of Heart Disease. In fact there are at least ten different types and these fall into two distinct categories - Organic and Degenerative.

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The major difference between Organic and Degenerative Heart Disease is their causes.

Heart Disease - What Is The Difference Between Organic Heart Disease And Degenerative Heart Disease?

Organic refers to a situation where the organ (the heart) is damaged by a specific event. This can also be referred to as "acute", which simply means that it happened suddenly or over a short period of time. Degenerative Heart Disease (sometimes referred to as "chronic") is caused by gradual deterioration over a long period of time.

There are two types of Organic H.D. - Congenital and Rheumatic .

Defects that occur at birth are classed as Congenital Heart Disease. These may affect the heart itself : it may not have developed normally during pregnancy, the wall of the heart may be damaged (hole in the heart), or the blood vessels may be underdeveloped. These defects may be hereditary or more likely have been caused by external factors such as drugs or infection during pregnancy. They are normally diagnosed at birth or in early childhood but it is not uncommon for the symptoms to occur for the first time in adulthood..

Rheumatic Heart Disease can be the result of a bout of rheumatic fever. Occurrences have decreased considerably due to the use of antibiotics to treat rheumatic fever.

There are at least eight specific diseases, which fall into the category of Degenerative Heart Disease. The common factors within this category are that the disease has progressed gradually and that there is no specific event that has caused it.

The vast majority of people who are diagnosed with Heart Disease have some form of degenerative heart disease. This is the form of disease that is the target of the awareness campaigns and is the type that we can help to prevent by our lifestyles choices.

Heart Disease - What Is The Difference Between Organic Heart Disease And Degenerative Heart Disease?

Remember:

It's Your Heart!

It's Your Life!

It's Your Choice!

To find out more about the different type of heart disease and the methods I have used to overcome the symptoms of heart disease since I suffered a heart attack in 1999 visit http://heart-attack-and-heart-disease.com

How To Grow Organic Walnuts - One Of The Top10 Super-Foods

Walnuts - are an excellent source of plant based omega 3 fatty acids, known for fighting heart disease. They are also packed with micronutrients, antioxidants and plant sterol, which lower cholesterol.

Walnuts also provide protein and phosphorus as well as vitamins B and D. Eat nuts in moderation though as they are quite high in calories - perhaps a handful up to five times a week. Oil made from the nuts is delicious in salads or on pasta dishes.

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Common walnut (Juglans regia) is a beautiful, slow growing, deciduous tree that may grow to around 15meters/50feet tall with a spread of about 10meters/30feet. Because of it's potential mature size give some thought to its permanent position as not all back yards are able to accommodate such a tree. Even though they will tolerate heavy pruning, they shouldn't be planted near drains or buildings.

How To Grow Organic Walnuts - One Of The Top10 Super-Foods

It is a cool-climate tree and prefers a sunny position. The mature tree is quite frost hardy, but young plants and new spring growth are vulnerable to frost damage. Walnut trees prefer deep, rich, well drained soils with regular watering through summer and plenty of light.

Grafted plants will produce much better fruit than trees grown from seed. The cultivar 'Wilson's Wonder' fruits at around 7 years, much sooner than most others. It is best to plant out young trees in winter, while leafless.

Barely noticeable female flowers grow on the current years growth and greenish/yellow male catkins hang from last seasons twigs on the same tree in spring, just before the large pinnate leaves appear.

The fruits are oval in shape and are 4-5cm across.

The hard shelled nuts form inside green husks that turn dark brown when ripe. The tasty kernel is found inside the hard outer shell.

The fruit should be collected from the ground in autumn (fall) once they have withered and fallen from the tree.

Use gloves to remove the husk from the white kernel inside, to prevent staining your hands.

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) produces the toxin juglone, which is emitted via its roots. Many plants that come into contact with it will wilt or die because this toxin is so strong.

Leaves that fall from walnut trees, as well as the husks, are toxic to other plants, so don't include them in your general composting.

They are also very poisonous to fish and most animals.

The outer husks can be used to make a brown dye.

Some species are grown specifically for their yield of fine timber for furniture production. Sometimes they are just grown for their elegant, aromatic foliage and remarkable form.

How To Grow Organic Walnuts - One Of The Top10 Super-Foods

Hi, I am an avid organic gardener and am known by my friends as the recycling queen. I live on a small country property in South Australia.

It is my mission to encourage as many people as possible to start organic gardening ( I know you'll become addicted). This will improve both our individual lives and the wellbeing of our personal and global environments.

Anyone can grow their own healthy food with Organic Gardening. Click here to get started now!

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Julie Williams
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Worming Goats - Discover an Organic, Natural Goat Wormer With Many Homestead Uses

Looking for a product for worming goats that is safe, non-toxic, organic and highly effective? How about a natural wormer that can also be used to treat chicken lice, keep water clean, and protect stored grain from flour weevils? The answer is diatomaceous earth.

Diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of tiny phyto-plankton or diatoms, laid down as marine sediment millions of years ago. While it is totally harmless to mammals and other higher animals (and can even be used as a trace mineral supplement) diatomaceous earth insecticide properties are well established scientifically, and further experiments are confirming its efficacy when used as a goat wormer, for natural sheep worming and organic parasite control in a range of other animals.

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For meat or dairy farming organic certification is not threatened by its use, and there is no withholding period on the produce of animals treated with diatomaceous earth (DE). DE is not even counted as a foreign substance by the United States Department of Agriculture when used in grain for weevil control.

Worming Goats - Discover an Organic, Natural Goat Wormer With Many Homestead Uses

And because its mode of action is physical, chemical resistance is not an issue and there is no need to rotate your wormers as with chemical anthelmintic preparations.

Aside from its usefulness as a natural wormer for worming goats and other livestock, it is also effective as a natural poultry wormer, plus diatomaceous earth insecticide properties make it invaluable to have around the homestead for a myriad of other applications including:

Other Uses for Diatomaceous Earth

• Natural flea killer
• Household insect pest control
Organic control of grain weevils
• Small hive beetle control
Organic garden pest control
• Beauty products (e.g. face masks and defoliants)

Warning: These uses apply only to the ultra-fine grade of DE. Swimming pool grade DE is not suitable for the applications described here as it is not only too coarse, but also contains crystalline silica, a respiratory hazard and potential poison.

Worming Goats - Discover an Organic, Natural Goat Wormer With Many Homestead Uses

Permaculture expert Dr Meg Howe is a small farming educator and enthusiast. Visit her website and discover the full story on how to use super-fine quality DE for worming goats and for a myriad of other homestead purposes, or to buy diatomaceous earth.

How To Make An Organic Moisturizer

Organic Skin Care must include moisturizers. Although it is handy to purchase these in a ready to use form, you may want to try some of the following homemade moisturizers for a luxurious change on occasion.

You will find that they leave your skin feeling like a million bucks. If cost is a concern, check prices online before choosing a certain recipe. Keep in mind that the more essential oil that the recipe calls for, the more expensive it is to make. In places that the essential oil is more for light fragrance than for necessity to the recipe, it is marked as 'optional.' Any essential oils marked this way can be omitted or changed to a scent that you prefer. For those not marked optional, you need them for the recipe to work like it should.

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By packaging the moisturizers in small Mason jars, you leave yourself open to decorate and give as gifts in a pinch. Place a bit of colorful fabric over the flat lid to the jar, screw the ring on, wrap a color coordinated ribbon around the ring and add a personal tag and you have a ready to give, organic skin care gift from the heart. Just be sure that you are willing to share the recipe or they may drive you crazy wanting more!

How To Make An Organic Moisturizer

Quick and Simple Moisturizer:

Jojoba Oil is great for any skin type and absorbs easily. Apply a small amount to your freshly cleaned face before you dry it. The water on your face is very important to the use of this oil as a moisturizer. For added enjoyment, mix a drop of your favorite organic essential oil to the jojoba just before application. For anti-aging help, use one teaspoon of jojoba and a dab of active royal jelly (found in refrigerated in health food stores); keep your royal jelly refrigerated or it becomes inactive and no good to you.

Anti-aging Dry Skin Moisturizer

4 ounces shea butter

2 ounces organic olive oil

2 teaspoons organic vitamin E oil, 5000 IU

1 teaspoon active royal jelly (refrigerated section of health food stores)

6 drops organic lavender essential oil

Mix all ingredients on high until smooth and creamy. Store refrigerated in an airtight container. It is necessary to make small amounts of this at a time and keep refrigerated because of the active royal jelly. This is an awesome ingredient for its healing properties and well worth the effort.

Super Simple Moisturizer

With only 2 necessary ingredients, this one is a breeze. Mix 1/4 cup pure aloe vera gel (directly from plant) and 2 tablespoons organic vegetable glycerin. This amount is for use over the entire body. Use immediately because aloe vera gel begins to lose potency immediately. For added effects, you can add 3 or 4 drops of your favorite essential oil or you can add 1/2 teaspoon of active royal jelly for anti aging effects. Active royal jelly must be kept refrigerated to remain active and can be found in refrigerated sections of health food stores.

Dry Skin Moisturizing Cream

This moisturizer has the healing qualities of aloe vera, the anti-oxidant qualities of Vitamin E, and a variety of oils specifically chosen to infuse dry, tired skin with moisture and a renewed radiance.

1/3 cup aloe vera gel (taken directly from plant)

1/4 cup beeswax (liquefied)

1/3 cup coconut oil

3 drops grape seed extract

6 drops of organic lavender essential oil (optional)

3/4 cup organic olive oil

1/4 tsp vitamin E (5000 IU)

2/3 cup water (distilled)

Combine olive oil, coconut oil, and beeswax and melt in a large, microwave safe bowl then pour in blender and let cool until it is about as thick as a milkshake.

While the above is cooling, combine your water, aloe, essential oil, vitamin E, and grape seed extract in a large liquid measuring cup, pour this into blender when the other mixture has cooled enough. Blend until smooth and creamy.

If you are lucky enough to have a heavy duty kitchen mixer (the kind that is on its own stand with its own bowls), you may find that it works better for you because the mixture does become very heavy.
Store refrigerated in small Mason jars.

How To Make An Organic Moisturizer

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Pros, Cons of Organic Foods

Organic clothes, organic food, organic cleaning products - the word "organic" seems to be the hottest trend right now. However, before you jump on the organic bandwagon, it is important to identify the pros and cons of purchasing and consuming organic foods. It may be hard to identify the differences with an untrained eye. At the grocery store, both the non-organic and organic fruits and vegetables look fresh and healthy, so why do the organic foods cost as much as twice as much? The trend has moved beyond the produce aisle and into the shelves of the grocery store aisle, leading to the introduction of drinks, dried fruits, bread, yogurt, cheese and dozens of other food products.

Many Americans harbor increasing concerns about food safety and genetically modified food products. "Organic" when used on the label of a food product means that the food has been grown on land that has been chemical free for at least three years. Food crops labeled organic must also be grown without the use of pesticides or other chemicals. Finally, they must be processed and packaged without the use of artificial preservatives, colorings or any other additives.

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There are many strong arguments in defending the purchase and consumption of organic food products. Organic farming does not pose the threat of pesticide and chemical run-off which could contamination watersheds and drinking water, while many traditional modern farming methods do just that. Organic farms also tend to maintain richer, more sustainable soil through the use of cover crops, crop rotations and composts. These organic farming methods have been shown to slow soil erosion and it vary the nutrient demands on the soil.

Pros, Cons of Organic Foods

One study analyzing twelve foods concluded that organic foods hold more nutritional value and micronutrients than non-organic foods. The nutritional pros from organic foods include higher levels of vitamins A, B, C, E, vitamins, elements such as zinc and minerals such as calcium. Organic foods also do not carry the risk of some health complications linked to pesticides and antibiotics. Organic foods also contain lower levels of heavy metals and virtually no hydrogenated fat which has been linked to heart disease), whereas non-organic processed food can contain both.

Despite the increased nutritional value of organic foods, there are some cons to consuming organic foods. Manure used in organic compost may be more harmful than the health risks related to pesticides and chemicals used on non-organic farms. Manure often contains E. coli bacterium, which can spread harmful animal diseases to humans. Furthermore, organic foods are producible at the same rate as non-organic foods. Organic farming methods often produce lower yields than modern intensive methods. This is why food grown organically can often cost twice as much as food grown on non-organic farms. If large farms started replacing modern farming methods with organic methods, the world may see a food shortage emerge.

Pros, Cons of Organic Foods

Candis Reade is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about the pros and cons of organic foods [http://www.myorganicmarkets.info/pros-cons-of-organic-foods], please visit My Organic Markets [http://www.myorganicmarkets.info] for current articles and discussions.

Is Organic Food & Organic Farming the Future

Ethical businesses such as and the co-op offer a real alternative for people concerned with these issues and with businesses that combine a strong ethical dimension in tandem with making profits.

Here are some of the main features of organic farming:

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o Organic farming severely restricts the use of artificial chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

Is Organic Food & Organic Farming the Future

o Instead, organic farmers rely on developing a healthy, fertile soil and growing a mixture of crops.

o Animals are reared without the routine use of drugs, antibiotics and wormers common in intensive livestock farming.

Synthetic dyes and ingredients such as Sudan1 were in the national news in February and can cause cancer. See http://www.food.gov.uk for further details. Genetically modified (GM) crops and ingredients are not allowed under organic standards.

Why Buy Organic?

It has never been easier to shop for organic food, and there has never been so much choice. Every food category now has an organic alternative. Its also common sense; organic food is good food. Good to eat, good for the environment, good for the small-scale farmers and the farm workers who produce it.

Chefs across the country are committed to using organic ingredients because plants from healthy soils and organically fed livestock provide us with more flavorful food. Organic foods allow true flavour to shine through unlike other non-organic foods that look and taste good but are often full of E numbers and artificial flavourings and ingredients.

By supporting local, sustainable and organic farms in your local community you also support the larger community of which we are all a part. By eating organic food you are providing the healthiest choice for your family and supporting the farms that provide us with healthy and ecological neighbourhoods.

The 'go local' food movement is flourishing - over 15% of people buy organic food locally and this number continues to rise as the number of farmer's markets, box schemes, cafes and restaurants serving organic food increase. Locally produced foods are often fresher, healthier and more economical. It cuts down on transport costs and 'food miles' where an average shopping basket can include fruit and vegetables transported from all over the world.

The big supermarkets in the UK are about to introduce there own vegetable box schemes. This is good because the supermarket schemes should encourage more people to buy organic food and are likely to raise the profile and public awareness of the benefits of organic box schemes in general. These new organic consumers will hopefully become convinced of the benefits of organic food and become more interested in and aware of the advantages of buying local too. The supermarket schemes could therefore be a positive first step on people's journey to buying organic, local food generally and perhaps moving on to subscribe to independent box scheme businesses - as well as supporting other local food outlets like farmers' markets or independent retailers.

The supermarkets themselves may find their businesses becoming subject to more far-reaching changes, as their customers are exposed to the principles and practices which inspire the original local food and grassroots box-scheme movement.

Is Organic Food & Organic Farming the Future

Davinos Greeno works with the Organic directory http://www.guidemegreen.com This growing green products directory lists 100s of Organic and Fairtrade food and drinks companies, jobs at [http://www.jobs.guidemegreen.com] and Campaigning Videos [http://www.videos.guidemegreen.com].

Organic Foods - Which Foods Should Be Organic?

If you have considered starting to purchase some organic foods, sometimes it can be tough to figure out which foods should be organic. In most cases, going totally organic can be too expensive to be a reasonable option. However, there are some foods that are better for you in organic form because they help to reduce your exposure to pesticides. This also allows you to find a slow and gradual way that you can begin to go organic as well.

As you are choosing foods that you want to purchase organically, make sure to remember that some foods are more likely to absorb synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides than some other foods. You will also find that the way certain foods are eaten can limit your exposure to pesticides and other toxins as well. Here is a look at some of the foods you should be choosing in organic form for the best results.

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Eggs and Dairy Products

Organic Foods - Which Foods Should Be Organic?

Both eggs and dairy are foods that you will want to purchase organically. When chickens or cows are fed feed that is not organic and they are given hormone supplement, you get even more chemicals. Since eggs and dairy are both used on a regular basis, it is a good idea to choose organic eggs and organic dairy products. More organic options are available than ever before, so it does not have to break your budget to purchase these items in organic form.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables, such as potatoes and carrots, tend to absorb a lot of pesticides. Not only are their chemicals sprayed on the plants above the ground, but pesticides can soak into the ground as well. For this reason, choosing organic root vegetables is a wonderful idea. It will cost a bit more, but it will provide big benefits.

Strawberries

Another of the foods you should purchase organic is strawberries. Strawberries are often imported from other parts of the world that do not have strict rules about pesticides. Since the strawberries are eaten whole, you can definitely take in a lot of pesticides. Going with locally grown or organic options helps to decrease the chemicals you take in and usually the strawberries even taste better.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens can absorb a lot of pesticides, and since you eat the entire plant, this can really spread those chemicals into your body. More and more growers are beginning to grow leafy greens organically. This means they are more readily available today and they are not much more expensive than the non-organic leafy greens that are available at the grocery store either.

Coffee

You may be surprised to find that going with organic coffee is an excellent choice. Most people do not realize that most coffees are being important into the United States. Often the beans are grown in areas where there is very lax oversight over chemicals. There may be a large amount of pesticides in your coffee, which is why going with organic options can allow you to enjoy your caffeine fix without taking in more chemicals.

Organic Foods - Which Foods Should Be Organic?

Going organic can be a great choice, and organic fish options are wonderful for fish chowder recipes. Instead of going with farm grown fish, which may include chemicals, look for wild caught fish to get the best benefit from those oven baked fish recipes you find.

EasyFishRecipes.net - The Only Thing Better Than Our Recipes Is Catching Them Yourself!

Buying Organic - Why Buy Organic Spices and Herbs?

I have had a number of friends ask me why organic spices and herbs are worth the little extra it costs to buy them. The question usually comes up something like; "What's the difference between what I buy at the grocery store and what is offered online?"

Really, you know what, that's a question worth addressing. The fact is that what is available in a store online is targeted to the consumer who has already make the decision to buy organic and is willing to spend a little bit more for the highest quality of spices and herbs that are available. That buyer represents a small slice of the population who use spices, herbs and seasonings and clearly does not represent the mindset of the shopper who goes to the grocery store on a weekly basis and has more of a "salt and pepper" approach to cooking.

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There are primarily two reasons to buy organic spices, herbs and seasonings. You're Health, better flavor, and if there is a third reason, it would be for the health of our planet.

Buying Organic - Why Buy Organic Spices and Herbs?

Organic spices and herbs are grown without using chemicals and unnatural fertilizers. The benefits should be obvious. What we avoid, in terms of ingesting unknown chemicals that may cause cancer, heart disease and other health related concerns, protects us. To be certified organic a grower must grow on land that has not had synthetic fertilizers, growth regulators, insecticides, or herbicides applied to it for a minimum of three years. If not grown organic, you just don't know what you're getting.

The fact is that organic herbs and spices just taste better. Standards for processing, storage, packaging and shipping of these products almost assure that they are fresher and more favorable. Look for a supplier that date stamps their packaging so you know what you are buying is not something that has out lived it's shelf life. The benefit to you, as a consumer, is that you don't have to guess about the quality and freshness of the product you buy.

If you care about Mother Earth then you probably already buy organic and if you don't it may be reason enough to consider the move. Because organically grown foods, herbs and spices don't add pesticides, fertilizers and other dangerous chemicals to the environment the natural balance of the land is maintained. Streams, rivers, lakes and our underground water supplies have less risk of becoming polluted. Bottom line, we all benefit as good stewards of the land while we eat well and stay healthy.

Enjoy!

Buying Organic - Why Buy Organic Spices and Herbs?

Doug Stranahan is the owner of http://www.organicspicesrack.com and knows the importance of picking the right organic spice for the right job.

SEARCH LISTINGS! What is Organic? What is Paid?

If you have ever searched any thing in Google or Yahoo or any other search engine then you know what a listing is. It is the lists of websites that come up after the search.

What you need to know are that there is two different types of listings. Paid and organic. This is the basic knowledge you need to understand to be successful. To keep it simple paid listings are obviously listings that you have to pay for. Organic listing are ones that you don't have to pay for.

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What you want in your website is to be at the very first site that comes up when someone searches a certain keyword, a keyword is the phase that someone puts into Google. Both paid and organic can get to the top of the list but hey get there in different ways.

SEARCH LISTINGS! What is Organic? What is Paid?

Paid listings are ones that you get from AdWords and it automatically goes to the top of the list, but people will be a lot more cautious when clicking on your site so it can be very risky and you could lose a fear bit of money. It could also be very beneficial and people could visit your site a lot more and you could make a nice profit.

Organic listings are simply when Google or another search engine thinks people will like your site and they put at the top of the list. If lots of people visit your site it will obviously rise in the rankings. People will almost always go for an organic over a paid but getting your site to the top can be quite challenging.

It's up to you to choose what you want to do, but as a little tip if you choose organic try to rank for keywords that are not as popular. Good Luck:)

SEARCH LISTINGS! What is Organic? What is Paid?

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Are There Toxic Chemicals in Your "ORGANIC" Personal Care Products?

The Organic Consumers Association has stated that many so-called "organic" or "natural" product brands were actually made with toxic chemicals such as 1,4-dioxane, Olefin Sulfonate, and Amdiopropyl Betaine.

Recently, Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps filed a lawsuit in California Superior Court against a number of personal care brands to force them to stop making misleading organic labeling claims. Companies sued by Dr. Bronner's include Estee Lauder, Ecocert, OASIS, Stella McCartney's CARE, Jasön, Avalon Organics, Nature's Gate, Kiss My Face, Ikove and others. Each of the companies being sued is using potentially dangerous chemicals that certainly don't qualify as natural or organic, according to Dr Bronner's.

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The products include shampoo, body wash, liquid soap, skin cleansers and other personal care products. It seems that many of the companies in the "organic" products industry are flatly dishonest, and they're jumping on the organic bandwagon as a clever tactic to make a quick buck rather than formulating their products with genuinely honest organic ingredients that put consumer health first.

Are There Toxic Chemicals in Your "ORGANIC" Personal Care Products?

The major cleansing ingredient in Jason "Pure, Natural & Organic" liquid soaps, body washes and shampoos is Sodium Myreth Sulfate, a corrosive de-greaser which is cumulative in the body and is listed as hazardous on the data sheets that the US government puts out on chemicals.

The major cleansing ingredient in Avalon "Organics" soaps, bodywashes and shampoos,
Cocamidopropyl Betaine, contains conventional non-organic chemicals combined with the petrochemical Amdiopropyl Betaine. Nature's Gate "Organics" main cleansers are Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Kiss My Face "Obsessively Organic" cleansers main ingredients are Olefin Sulfonate (a pure petrochemical) and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Juice "Organics", Giovanni "Organic Cosmetics", Head "Organics", Desert Essence "Organics", and Ikove "Organic" all use CocamdiopropylBetaine. Betaine is a common cleansing ingredient and no cleansers made from it can be certified organic due to its petrochemical compounds.

Ecocert is a French-based certifier that allows cleansing ingredients made from conventional and organic agriculture. It also includes, in the cleansing ingredients contained in products labeled as "Made with Organic ingredients", certain petrochemicals such as Amidopropyl Betaine. Ecocert certifies the Ikove brands' cleansing products to contain less than 50% organic content, noted in small text on the back of the product, where all cleansing ingredients are non-organic including Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Yet the product is labeled "Organic Amazonian Avocado Bath & Shower Gel".

Another instance is Stella McCartney's "100% Organic" CARE line certified by Ecocert that labels products as "100% Organic" that are not 100% Organic alongside ones that are; the labels of products that are not 100% organic simply insert the word "Active" before "Ingredients." In allowing such labeling, Ecocert ignores the requirements of its own certification standards. The primary organic content in most Ecocert certified products comes from "Flower Waters" in which up to 80% of the "organic" content consists merely of just regular tap water that Ecocert counts as "organic."

The new Organic and Sustainable Industry Standard ("OASIS")-a standard developed exclusively by certain members of the industry, primarily Estee Lauder, with no consumer input, will permit certification of products outright as "Organic" (rather than as "Made with Organic" ingredients) even if such products contain hydrogenated and sulfated cleansing ingredients such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate made from conventional agricultural material grown with synthetic fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, and preserved with synthetic petrochemical preservatives such as Ethylhexylglycerin and Phenoxyethanol. The organic content is required to only be 85%, which in water and detergent-based personal care products, means organic water extracts and aloe vera will be all that is needed to convert conventional synthetic cleansing ingredients to "organic".

The OASIS standard is not only useless but deliberately misleading to organic consumers looking for a reliable indicator of true "organic" products. Organic consumers expect that cleansing ingredients in products labeled "Organic" be made from actual organic ingredients, not conventional farming methods or chemical preservatives. Surprisingly, companies represented on the OASIS board, such as Hain (Jason "Pure, Natural & Organic"; Avalon "Organics") and Cosway (Head "Organics",) produce liquid soap, bodywash and shampoo products with petrochemicals in their cleansers even though use of petrochemicals in this way is not permitted even under the very permissible OASIS standard these companies have themselves developed and endorsed.

Organic consumers have a right to expect that the personal care products they purchase with organic label claims contain cleansing ingredients made from organic material, not conventional or petrochemical material.

Are There Toxic Chemicals in Your "ORGANIC" Personal Care Products?

Rebecca Jablonski

[http://creatingwealthandhealth.info/]

Organic Chicken - Benefits to Health and Environment

The beauty of living in the countryside offers the experience of eating organic chicken, but it is also available in the cities in small quantities. Organic chickens usually just roam around to find food. People raising these chickens use rice, corn or any food available to feed them. They simply call the chickens in some distinct way and the chickens come racing as if panicking for the food. They then throw the grains or any food and each chicken picks as many as it can. When the regular meal is over, the chickens roam around and search the ground for any available food which may be plants, insects, seeds, and if the area is coastal, small fish and live small shellfish.

Organic chickens have high beneficial fats that lower cholesterol, and higher amount of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin A. Their eggs taste much much better than those from commercially-raised chickens which receive regular dose of antibiotics, vaccines and other medications. Though it takes longer cooking time for the meat of most native chickens, its taste is incomparable with 28-day broiler confined in overcrowded poultry houses where they also release their wastes.

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Native organic chickens are much smaller in size and grow much slower. While it only takes 28 days for a broiler to be harvested, native chicken usually needs at least six months. That is why, native chickens cannot be grown on commercial basis. Since the supply cannot meet the demand requirements of the chicken meat eating population, no big poultry raiser is interested in venturing into this kind of poultry raising. Organic chicken vendors usually rely on groups of small farmers for their supply and could not at this point meet the growing demand of organic chicken consumers.

Organic Chicken - Benefits to Health and Environment

For organic chicken consumers, eating organic chicken does not only provide health benefits but also better ecosystem. Chickens raised in the open catch insects that may be harmful to the plants, scavenge crop residue and help in fertilizing the soil through its organic manure. By the way, farms using chicken dung as fertilizer do not necessarily produce organic crops. Chicken dung are bought from commercial poultry farms that use chemicals and medications which are proven to be harmful to the human body.

Since most suppliers of organic chicken are small farmers, organic chicken consumers also help build the rural economy and the income potential of small farmers. Consumers also indirectly contribute to the protection and conservation of the environment because growing organic chicken does not produce air pollution that is common in poultry farms. There are also no flies to spread germs and organisms that cause diseases to the people.

Organic Chicken - Benefits to Health and Environment

Organic food [http://www.gonaturalorganicfood.com/] is not an alternative because that was the way nature was created. It only becomes an alternative to people who have gone the unnatural way. Read more organic food articles at Natural and Organic [http://www.gonaturalorganicfood.com/] Food Reviews and get ready for the organic and natural choice. The site is dedicated to provide information about healthy habits and lifestyles, list and links to organic food stores and organic food online, campaigns and advocacy on organic and natural food, organic farming and production and a storehouse full of organic food tips. Exchange of information and comments are always welcome.

Organic - What Does it Really Mean?

A recent post on my blog directed readers to a produce buying guide that is available at no charge and help shoppers understand when purchasing organic vs. conventionally grown foods should be a preference A reader left a comment that it seems now the term organic is used rather loosely. It is similar to the "lite" label on foods. Lite can mean less fat, more sugar or less sugar, more calories. She is confused about what organic really means relating to her food purchases.

I totally agree with her. It is rare to have a conversation these days where someone doesn't use the phrase "organic" or "organically grown" and they are not referring to anything in the food chain. They use it to discuss ideas or trends or products totally unrelated to food consumption. It is not an improper use of the word and, actually, can be quite appropriate. Because it is such an ordinary conversation term, it can also diminish the reality of what organic food is really all about. In the case of food products, there are established and regulated guidelines that must be followed for the word organic to be used on a product.

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  • Foods labeled organic must be produced without the use of conventional pesticides, any artificial fertilizers, human waste, or sewage residual.
  • The foods can not be processed using radiation or food additives.
  • The farmland has to free from chemicals for a certain number of years.
  • Any non-organic production must be kept completely separate from organic production.
  • Sources of food production are also subject to inspections.
  • Facilities and methods of production must comply with the standards.
  • A written production plan is required to include purchases and sales, field and crop locations, fertilization and pest control activities, and harvest and storage activities.

Organic - What Does it Really Mean?

In 2002, the National Organic Program (NOP) came into being. Because of the legislation creating this program, it restricts the use of the term "organic" to only those producers certified as organic producers. If a grower sells less than ,000 a year, the grower must comply to the standards and audits, but they do not need to formally apply. The certification is handled though state, non-profit, or private agencies. Each of these certification agents are approved by the Department of Agriculture and strict standards are maintained.

Organic really does have meaning relating to the food you purchase. When you see the organic sticker on a product, it is there because it meets the criteria, not just because someone put a sticker on it.

Organic - What Does it Really Mean?

Judy Ferril is a freelance writer in Minneapolis. Are you a stranger in your own kitchen? Do you think eating healthy means no fun or flavor in your meals? Judy is the self-trained executive chef for the Ferril family and loves to share her passion for cooking and healthy foods with others. Join Judy Ferril at Baking With Lemons. What does baking and lemons have to do with fun, flavor, and health? Come see, stretch your imagination and enjoy new tastes and flavors at Baking with Lemons and Local Food Connections for fun and healthy local food options. Judy Ferril

Organic Skin Care Products Checklist - Are Yours 100% Organic?

The words "100% organic" are thrown around so carelessly these days. Companies are cashing in big time on the organic craze. It started with food (fruits and vegetables), and now it has spread to the skincare industry. Make sure to read your herbal skin cream label carefully.

For those of you hardcore purists, sorry to disappoint, but a skin care cream cannot possibly be completely organic. Processing is necessary to formulate ingredients scientifically. If you insist on something all-natural, untouched by man, go out to your backyard after a rainstorm and collect some mud. And put that on your skin.

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Scientific processing isn't evil.

Organic Skin Care Products Checklist - Are Yours 100% Organic?

I believe that natural is best like you do. But I also realize that, in some cases, science takes what is found and nature and improves it. Take herbal dietary supplements, for example, they are just made from the extracts of raw herbs. Scientists figured out how to isolate the most potent part of the herb for the benefit of human health.

It's the same with organic skin care products; with scientific processing, the natural substances that smooth, firm, and moisturize skin are made even more effective.

What you need to stay away from are skin creams that are processed with harmful chemicals. Some of these widely used chemicals are parabens (preservatives linked to cancer) and fragrances (nice smelling chemicals that cause skin allergies and irritation).

Okay, besides avoiding parabens and fragrances, what things should you look for in organic skin care products? One of the best ingredients in the product I use is called Phytessence Wakame; it's an extract from a type of exotic Japanese sea kelp. It keeps the level of hyaluronic acid in your body high. This is especially important for skin health, because hyaluronic acid works with the skin proteins, collagen and elastin, to keep skin smooth, stretchy, and supple.

Also, natural oils are great for your skin. But synthetic oils (such as mineral oil) clog pores. Don't get them mixed up. Here are three natural oils you want to see in your product:

Babbasu - natural emollient that softens skin. It's particularly effective in nourishing the ultra-thin skin around the eyes.

Avocado - deeply hydrates skin. And in clinical trial it's been proven to boost collagen production.

Shea Butter - no, this is not a weird form of peanut butter like Nutella. It's a natural moisturizer and emollient that soothes inflamed skin and fades discolorations and stretch marks.

At my website, discover more of the powerful ingredients found in organic skin care products. Remember, it's good that you want to put only natural things on your skin, but don't be a stickler about them being 100% organic.

Organic Skin Care Products Checklist - Are Yours 100% Organic?

Carol Truesdale passionately believes in vibrant health through prevention. She's a lifelong consumer of skin care products. Visit her site now to discover the natural skincare line [http://www.dietary-supplements-guide.com/Quality-Skin-Care-Product.html] she recommends after extensive research.

Green, Organic, Natural - Misleading Words

Consumer demand for safer products to use around their homes and businesses to control pests was jumped upon by various companies. Green, organic and natural are the catch words being used to sell all kinds of products now. But in many cases these words are being used to mislead the consumer into thinking they are safe for people, plants, animals and the environment in general. The saying," buyer beware" should be applied to any product that is being promoted using these words! It is just two simplistic to say because it's green, natural or organic that it is better for the environment.

The demand for organic/natural products is increasing because of this concern for the environment and people. But pesticides that are extracted from a plant or mined from the ground doesn't mean they are "safe" for either people, plants, or animals. Rotenone, one of the most toxic of the organic insecticides, is still seen in many stores, as is Bordeaux mix and copper sulfate, two fungicides that can make a soil poisonous to plants if overused.

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There are two problems with these green/organic products. The first is that they are not as potent as conventional pesticides. Therefore, these green/organic pesticides usually require a larger dose to be effective. These larger doses increase the risk of runoff, leaching into the soil and toxicity to fish and birds. The second problem is the impact they may have on beneficial insect. Using vegetable or mineral oil to control aphids on plants works by smothering the problem insect and requires large amounts to get the job done. It will also kill ladybugs and other beneficial insects that were helping to control the aphids to begin with.

Green, Organic, Natural - Misleading Words

To conclude, the consumer must confront the notion that green/natural/organic choices are always the safest and best products to use for their pest control problems.

Green, Organic, Natural - Misleading Words

David Wheeler

DAVID WHEELER'S PEST CONTROL

http://www.wheelerspc.com