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A good selection of perennials provides an ongoing framework for the organic flower garden. Perennials are plants which flourish, then die back before re-establishing themselves in a seasonal cycle which should continue for at least several years. They can almost be considered permanent in cooler climates which provide favourable growing conditions. On account of this longevity, it is worthwhile preparing their ground thoroughly prior to planting. Most perennials benefit from well aerated soils which contain substantial quantities of thoroughly broken down organic materials such as compost, manure, and leaf mould. Healthy juveniles are generally available as potted plants from organic nurseries and plant wholesalers. In temperate climates these...

From historical times to present, writers and artists have always sought inspiration amidst the strength and majesty of living trees. They comfort the soul, and quietly offer their reassurance during difficult times. An American Indian proverb describes them as our silent brothers, sharing the sacred journey of life. Whether chosen for their flowers, fruit, or foliage, trees are accurately described as framework plants. In this capacity they influence the visual and aesthetic characteristics of their surrounding environment. Above all, trees provide the sense of permanence which characterises an established organic garden. Once established, many varieties of tree are low maintenance and provide an additional dimension to gardens, particularly...

Pruning is required to regulate the growth and shape of fruit trees, vines, and bushes. Because many of these are expected to support heavy crops, they need to develop a strong and resilient framework. This can usually be achieved through a combination of variety selection, and effective management which utilises a range of organic cultivation techniques such as soil enhancement, biological controls, companion planting, regular pruning, and fruit thinning. Immature trees and bushes are pruned to stimulate the correct orientation and solid growth of supporting limbs and branches. Over several seasons, the foliage is pruned into a shape which will eventually provide good protection for developing fruit while maintaining a reasonable degree of...

The propagation of fruit trees, bushes, and vines is a technical field containing considerable traps and difficulty for the inexperienced gardener. For a variety of reasons most commercial growers no longer propagate their own stock. Among these, time constraints, and barriers restricting convenient access to biological materials are believed to deter many growers away from the task. At the same time, the commercial success of large scale nurseries specialising in propagation have enabled these professional breeders to provide large quantities of plants at highly competitive prices. Despite these inducements to abandon their interest in the field, there is a small percentage of fruit growers who remain devoted to the task of propagating their...

While fruit trees can provide the most economically rewarding return for the labour and effort required to establish and maintain them, much of this will be directed toward protecting them against birds, insects, and other organisms. Since the organic philosophy is based upon promoting biodiversity and establishing harmonious relationships with nature, the strategies used to protect fruit trees need to be more sophisticated and enduring than those which only seek to remove or eliminate garden competitors. An integrated approach is recommended for coping with persistent fruit pests. In the first instance, ensuring the health and vitality of soil helps to support strong plants and lays the foundation for a balanced garden ecosystem. Because established...