5 of 10 things to know about Organic Gardening

The organic foods industry is growing faster than ever. While organics make up only a small percentage of the overall food supply, the agricultural methods behind organic farming are gaining attention because they are marketed to people who desire a better diet and a safer earth.

Consumers are concerned about genetically engineered foods and the use of pesticides so more and more questions about organic foods are being asked. Here are 5 of 10 frequently asked questions.

1. What’s the difference between "organic" and "natural"?

"Natural" is often is misrepresented in product labeling to imply healthy. All natural really means is minimal processing. The product may still have high fat or salt content. Still read labels.

Unlike organics, natural products have no certification or inspection system. Natural does not necessarily relate to growing methods or use of preserves.

2. What does certified organic mean?

When a grower is certified organic, a public or private organization verifies that the business meets standards set by the organic industry. The standards say land used for growing organic foods must be pesticide free for three years. Farmers must keep records of method, materials and management practices. The organic industry has been self-regulated for the past 20 years by 34 private and 11 state run organic agencies.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is working on uniform National Organic Standards that are expected to be completed by the end of the year. (2000) Once the standards are finalized, they will undergo congressional review and an 18-month implementation period. The standards will detail methods, practices and substances that can be used for producing crops. The standards establish clear labeling rules so consumers know exactly what they are getting. Rules like no genetically engineered seeds and no sewage sludge.

3. What foods are available organic, and where can I find them?

Organic foods are becoming more widely available and in greater variety. In addition to fruits and vegetables are many other products. They include Cereals, milk, ice cream, beer, vodka, and many other products that can be found in natural food stores and more and more in your local markets.

4. Why do organic foods cost more than conventional foods?

One of the most significant factors behind the higher cost is that conventional farmers are not paid "living wages." There’s a commitment within the organic community to support organic farmers with higher prices because they are not eligible for government subsides.

5. How large is the organic industry?

About 1% of the food grown in the U.S. is "organically grown." Organic sales have increased 20% over the past nine years. Currently there are 6,600 certified organic growers in the U.S.

5 more things to know about organic gardening coming next month.

What is Rockwool?

Rockwool products are made from basalt rocks and chalk, which come from the earth. Mimicking Mother Nature’s production of "angel hair" during volcanic activity, the rockwool manufactures heat rocks to 1600C, to create lava. The lava is blown into a spinning chamber, which makes fibers similar to cotton candy. The fibers are packed into mats, from which rockwool cubes, bocks and slabs are cut. Small tufts of fibers are also produced and bagged as "rockwool granulate". The products make excellent use of natural resources: one cubic yard of rock becomes 37 cubic yards of wool!

Rockwool is the most popular growing medium used by hydroponic growers. This sterile, chemically neutral medium has an ideal air to water ratio for hydroponic use. Typically seeds or cuttings are rooted in starter cubes. Then they are transferred into a growing cube where plants are grown until harvest. Some growers will take things a step further and place the grow cube onto a rockwool slab where the plants can grow even larger. Hortiwool (50% repel/50% absorb), Absorbent, and Repellent rockwool can be used in nursery pots for customized use.