UC Master Gardeners of Napa County TIP #2: Use Organic Compost or Amendments, Not Chemicals These roots show the effects of synthetic fertilizer use versus natural growth or the addition of organic amendments or compost. The dark mass of roots on the right fed only by compost is the best foundation for a healthy plant. With the misguided intent to buoy plant growth, home gardeners add chemical fertilizers and often nitrogen to the soil. Easily half of this nitrogen is unused by the plant and is released into the air as nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas. Plants may look good for a while, but over time synthetic fertilizers harm the organisms that digest and sequester carbon in the soil which support healthy plant growth. Regarding pesticides, over 98% of sprayed insecticides and 95% of herbicides reach a destination other than their target. For every 1 targeted pest, you could be killing upwards of 120 or more beneficial soil organisms! A healthy plant, fed by compost and organic amendments, can fend off most pests by itself. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B5w6oa5sM/

When it comes to nematodes, not all are harmful. In fact, most are essential players in the soil food web! While root-feeding nematodes can damage plants, they make up just one class among many. Beneficial nematodes help control pests, decompose organic matter, and cycle nutrients to support healthy soil. When I use a microscope, I focus on specific features to identify their function in the soil. I don’t need to know the exact species, just what role they play in keeping the ecosystem balanced. A healthy living soil isn’t about eliminating nematodes; it’s about understanding how to work with them. Do you have nematodes and if you do, how do you know?

I found this article interesting and was curious on what y'all think? https://www.agriculture.com/judge-overturns-usda-rule-on-genetically-engineered-plants-8755002

Would you do this and if not, what type of mulch do you use? https://www.thecooldown.com/green-home/grass-clippings-mulch-garden-vegetables/

Let's see what you are working with. If your garden is just an idea, let's see your space.