Twenty years ago, organic gardening or organic foods brought to mind thoughts of hippies getting in touch with the Earth. Ten years ago, organic foods were a delicacy indulged in by the wealthy that had excess money to spend on overpriced produce and meats.

Today, we are discovering that organic gardening and organic foods are enjoyed by the mainstream, and not just for an exclusive group. Going green and embracing an organic lifestyle is for anyone wanting a healthier body and a healthier Earth.

When we choose organic foods, from the supermarket or from our own gardens, we reap the benefits from consuming foods with higher vitamin and mineral content than its non-organic counterparts, thus helping to build healthier bodies and stronger immune systems. We also avoid the added colorings, flavorings and preservatives, as well as the residues of agricultural pesticides, hormones and antibiotics.

Today it is easier than ever before to grow your own organic fruits and vegetables. Whether you have an acre of land or a small city lot, you can enjoy the rewards of organic gardening. Your local garden center is stocked with everything you need to grow healthy produce without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals. You will discover that organic gardening can actually be less expensive and less labor intensive than chemical gardening. Organic lawn care can even mean less mowing, less weeding, less watering and the most beautiful lawn in the neighborhood.

When we feed the soil with organic fertilizers, the soil in turn is able to feed the plants. Plants that draw their strength from rich organic soil are strong and healthy, resistant to stresses of the environment and are actually less attractive to harmful insects, thus eliminating the need for insecticides. Those insects that remain can be controlled by natural means.

Spring is the perfect time to discover the joys of going green in the garden. Happy soil, happy you.