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Organic land care is the use of appropriate methods & materials to promote plant health, using no synthetic pesticides or soil amendments. A healthy soil contains billions of organisms, from earthworms to microscopic bacteria. Such a balanced ecosystem is necessary for a healthy landscape. Healthy soils yield plants that are disease-resistant, negating the need for chemical pesticides. Benefits include higher soil organic content and reductions in:
- nutrient run off
- nitrous oxide (a potent greenhouse gas) from nitrogen fertilizers
- mowing
- water use
In a recent study, the University of Connecticut found that organic fertilizers also release nutrients more slowly, helping to prevent water pollution. Using organic methods allows for slower turf growth throughout the growing season, which ultimately results in less frequent mowing, reduced fuel usage, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. These many benefits translate into positive results for the environment.
Using the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) organic land care standards, Northeast Horticultural Services can help you design an organic land and lawn care program for your property.
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