Even if you don’t consider yourself an organic gardener, you may still choose to adopt growing methods that have the least harmful effect on the environment.  The first step towards gardening in an eco-friendly way is to build up the health of the soil using natural materials.  This is important because good soil produces strong plants that are less susceptible to disease and insect pests.  Improving the soil is something that should be done every year, because each crop and planting depletes the earth of nutrients.  Here is some advice for achieving rich, fertile soil in your garden.

Test the soil

Soil testing is becoming a more commonplace practice, even among hobby gardeners.  This procedure will tell you the levels of essential minerals and the amount of organic matter in the soil, as well as other useful information.  When you know what the soil needs, you can take the correct steps to bring it back into balance.  There are many mail-in soil testing services available to gardeners.  You can also look in the phone book for local soil testing companies.  Garden supply centers often sell home test kits that let you assess certain important soil qualities such as the pH level.

Get air into the soil

You might be surprised to learn that healthy soil is about 25 percent air.  Good air circulation is essential for the survival of the micro-organisms dwelling in the earth.  Plant root systems also need enough space to develop.  You can increase the amount of air in the soil and improve circulation by loosening up the soil with a turning fork or tiller.

Add organic matter to the soil

Organic matter is continuously being broken down into humus by organisms living in the soil.  The decomposition process releases vital nutrients required by growing plants.  As the supply of organic matter is used up, it needs to be replenished.  Adding generous amounts of compost to the soil is an excellent way to do this.  A good rule of thumb is to apply at least one inch of finished compost over the soil and work it into the top six inches or so.  If the soil is very depleted of organic matter, it will benefit from the incorporation of at least three inches of partially composted material.

Use the right organic fertilizers

After you’ve had the soil tested, you can use the results to help you get the mineral levels back in balance.  If you want to fertilize, buy a good organic fertilizer that is made from natural sources.  Most nurseries that sell organic fertilizer will be able to recommend the correct type for your particular soil situation.

Mulch the soil

Mulching is sometimes overlooked by new gardeners but it plays an important role in keeping soil healthy.  Three or four inches of mulch around plants will hold in valuable moisture, protecting the soil from the drying effects of sun and wind.  Mulching also an effective way to minimize weeds and prevent the spread of some plant diseases.  A decomposable mulch is a good option because it will slowly add nutrients and organic matter to the soil as it breaks down.

Don’t use insecticides or pesticides

The toxic chemicals in pesticides may kill off the destructive bugs, but they can also wipe out the beneficial insects and organisms that you absolutely need in your garden.  Cultivating strong and healthy plants should be your first line of defense against insect attacks.  If you need more ammunition, you can choose from many natural and effective pest control methods that won’t harm growing plants, the soil, or the environment.

It’s easy to get rich, fertile soil without using toxic chemicals.  Whatever you decide to plant in your garden, you will see much better growing results when you’ve improved the soil by natural methods.  You will also feel good about doing your part to create a healthier environment.