By using pesticides and fertilizers on our lawns and gardens, we are responsible for almost 10 percent of our common water pollution. Organic gardening involves growing plants in soil that contains organic, natural substances, uncontaminated by chemically formulated fertilizers or pesticides. Organic gardening emphasizes a holistic approach to cultivation. Pest reduction and soil enhancement strategies can involve attention to soil quality, beneficial insects, and barrier plants. First, the health of the earth's habitat is very important.
Pesticides are poisons designed to ward off pests.
Unfortunately, pesticides also harm beneficial insects, fish, and birds. Runoff from chemical fertilizers and pesticides soaks into groundwater and washes into streams, lakes, and oceans. This can kill whole lakes and ponds as well as all the wildlife and fish that depend on these water sources. Bioaccumulation means that pesticides build up across the flood chain. Animals eat other animals, incrementally accumulating pesticides in their systems.