“I always encourage people to have a garden at the back of their house. They can plant flowers or vegetables,” said Ben S. Borja, agriculturist from the CNMI Forestry
Before planting a shrub or tree there are several things to consider. Borja shares tips on the different factors. “Here in the Marianas we have two seasons, the wet and dry season. So if you know exactly when is the dry season and when is the wet season you can schedule when to plant,” he said.
A plant or tree helps the environment in many ways. Select the right plant to grow depending on its needs and how much care you can provide for it. “Before you choose a plant you first have to know what it needs,” said Borja. “Planting vegetable requires a lot of attention and you have to have the right type of soil. If you are planting fruit trees, you have less concerns because you just dig and plant it, put fertilizer as well as water it. If your planting trees for shade, that’s another thing. Plant a mango tree and as it grows it provides shade. It provides a place for wildlife and bears fruit,” he added.
The type of soil is also important for the plant to grow healthy. There are three types of soil the clay, sand, and the loom. “The loom is the best. It is usually a combination of organic matters, clay and sand. A combination of sandy, clay, and loom altogether will be the best type of soil for your plants,” said Borja
Water is also essential to nourish the plants. Collected rainwater is ideal. Pests and diseases are also issues to be looked at. To research on it while still planning on planting is a must. Stay away from using chemical materials in controlling pests. “Pests are anything that competes with man and animal for food,” said Borja.
Weeds will also cause problems for it will be competing with the main crop. “The best method of controlling it is weeding by hand or mechanical, wherein we use the machines,” he said.
Mounting is also a good practice when gardening. “When you mount, you just cut grass, collect the grass and put them around the plant. The grass that has been cut prevents weeds from growing. It also keeps the soil moist. And as it rots or decompose, organic fertilizer is going into the soil,” said Borja.
If there is not enough space in the area where you live in planting in a container is ideal for small apartments. “For those who are staying in an apartment they can grow plants at their terrace. They can always buy a styrofoam box. And make good enough holes for the drainage of the water,” said Borja.
Having plants at home can relieve stress and kids will also learn about science as they see the plants grow. “It is a stress reliever because when you come home you don’t want to be doing the same stuff you have been doing for the past eight hours. This is something you can enjoy and at the same time you can be teaching your kids,” said Borja.
For more details, call CNMI Forestry at 256 3320.
