In this episode, we have a conversation with Dr. Tatiana Sanchez about strategies for keeping organic gardens healthy. 

Dr. Sanchez gives tips on:

- understanding and maintaining soil health,

- strategies for preventing disease,

- managing pests in your soil, 

- and how to correctly manage plant nutrients in your garden.

When starting your garden, it’s important to begin with a soil test. Once you know what is in your soil, you will be able to amend the soil so it is richer and healthier. This will also help you select plants that will grow well in your soil. 

For preventing disease in your garden, it’s best to start “clean.” Make sure that the soil, seeds and plants you are planning to add to your garden are healthy and free of disease or infestation. Growing diverse types of crops can also help prevent diseases by lessening the ability for spread and encouraging different ecological shelters for beneficial microorganisms and insects. 

Understanding your habitat and creating an appropriate nutrient management plan is another important component to keeping your garden healthy. 

For more resources or questions, visit the UF/IFAS Master Gardener Program website.

You can also submit photos from your garden to UF/IFAS Extension’s Distance Diagnostic and Identification System (DDIS) to receive assistance with diagnosis of diseases and plant management.

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