In nature, diverse collections of plants all coexist, each contributing to the betterment of all. In the human world, we seem to focus on negatives: cures rather than prevention, differences instead of similarities. I like to look at some of the great gardens we have installed and think about how wonderfully all the different plants work together to produce a single beautiful garden. If only we could learn simple lessons like these from our plants.
Growing our plants organically was not an easy task for Sprainbrook Nursery. We turned to beneficial insects instead of insecticidal sprays, and organic fertilizers instead of chemical fertilizers. We added microbes to the soil and sprayed Messenger every three weeks. Our organic programs incorporated every tool we could find that might help grow better plants. Our focus was on sound growing principles.
In addition to our personal experiences—the unbelievable flowering crops we produced for fall and winter sales were our rewards—we had some incredible results, including my own mother’s lawn, reported back by customers. We found the great organic fertilizer Daniels; its results are unbelievable. Our cyclamen, poinsettia, and kalanchoe crops are out of this world. The primroses are coming along, adding more color for winter enjoyment. I feel we were able to grow the best plants in the marketplace.
Now that we have mastered this program, we are excited by what we will be able to produce for spring. Most of the plants sold in Westchester are imported into Westchester. We grow in Westchester for Westchester.
The organic movement is growing in this country. It is the right direction to take. The greatest challenge it faces is the lack of consumer education. The chemical companies flood the airways with advertisements. Our agricultural colleges have been influenced by large grants from these same powerful companies, and legislatures listen to their lobbyists. Finding a way to get the organic message across is difficult.
We need a grassroots, word-of-mouth movement. Those of us who understand what’s at stake need to become the messengers. Pass this message on to those who may benefit. Talk to your friends about the situation we are facing. Most people never even think about the environmental situation—and often those who do, don’t really understand what’s going on.
