FOOD FROM YOUR YARD: Intensive Gardening Methods (Virginia Tech)

WARNING: Some Parts of Your Yard Could be TOXIC!!!

Some parts of your yard can be toxic and should not be used as a garden. These areas typically include around the perimeter of your home, detached garage or any other buildings, since they (especially if they are older) could have lead or other toxins in the paint that has leachd into the ground, or pesticides (for bugs, and especially termites) sprayed (even once) around the house or buildings. Other areas not to raise food upon include, but are not limited to, areas next to a road (oil, fumes, asbestos, pesticides, etc.), septic fields (obvious problems), auto, truck, and machinery areas, near commercial buildings, gas stations, under utility poles (creosote from pole and potential PCB's from transformers), etc. In other words, use some common sense and don't plant in any area where there's even a remote chance that the soil has been contaminated. We know this could seem heart-breaking, but avoiding this pollution and not getting sick is even more important. We suggest ALWAYS getting a simple soil sample analysis. It's inexpensive (Google for local services that do this).Even if your soil is contaminated, consider using pots and planters on your patio, porch, or stoop. You will be amazed how much food these little containers can produce. Remember, if in doubt, don't use the soil to raise food - BUT, you can still plant any of these contaminated areas with lots of beautiful flowers that attract beneficial insects, and create a nice aroma (just don't eat them!).Good luck and happy growing!

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Intensive Gardening Methods (Virginia Tech)

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