Nutritional Benefits of Organic
The vitamin and mineral content in organic foods is higher than those in conventionally produced foods, thanks in large part to the nutrients and trace minerals found in nurtured and chemical-free soil. On average, organic food contains higher levels of Vitamin C and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium. Evidence suggests that organic crops have significantly higher levels of all 21 nutrients analyzed compared with conventional produce including:
- Vitamin C (27% more)
- Magnesium (29% more)
- Iron (21% more)
- Phosphorous (14% more).
There is a strong commitment to healthy soil and avoid abusing the land, thereby nurturing it to provide food for many years. This removes synthetic pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide residues on food. These gardening techniques promote preservation of topsoil and eliminate toxic runoff, water pollution, soil contamination, and adverse effects on beneficial soil organisms and the eco-system resulting in more intense and realistic flavors in our food.
Mental & Physical Benefits of Organic
There are numerous mental and physical health benefits to going organic. Time spent in the garden working with the soil and plants has proved to be very meditative and peaceful. The results are so astounding that organic gardening has made its way into the mental health industry in the form of Horticultural Therapy. The practice of horticultural therapy is a process of utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment of persons to improve their body, mind, and spirit.
Spiritual Benefits
Through working directly with the soil, plant life and organisms, there is a spiritual process that takes place. Nurturing the soil, planting seeds, and pulling weeds allows time with the higher power. Tending to the processes is meditative and a reminder that being part of something larger is awe inspiring. Working with creation on this level is also a time for prayer.
Refuse, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, Rethink and Repair
Remains from the organic garden are applied to the composting process. This aids to replenish nutrients into the soil and the organisms within it. This promotes reducing the waste that winds up in the landfill. Recycling leaves, grass and food waste, returning them to the earth in a beneficial way is a practice engrained in the community.
Actively Participate
If you are interested in participating in organic gardening and either learning how to grow organically, fine tune your current organic gardening skills, or share and sharpen your current skills, contact the opportunities specialist via email.