For more information : Prepare to eat and enjoy! Always wash or rinse fruits and vegetables completely before eating them If you are concerned about chemicals in the soil, peel below-ground vegetables (carrots and potatoes) and those grown in close contact with soil (such as cucumbers). Remove outside leaves of leafy vegetables (lettuce and cabbage) that may have soil particles stuck to them. Then wash thoroughly.
The CT Agricultural Experiment Station http://www.ct.gov/caes/site/default.asp. National Gardening Association http://www.garden.org/. Integrated Pest Management—Oregon State University http://npic.orst.edu/pest/ipm.html. EPA. Growing Gardens in Urban Soils. 2015. From EPA Clu-In Website: Eco-Tools - Tools for Ecological Land Reuse. http://cluin.org/ecotools/urbangardens.cfm Johns Hopkins University. Center for a Livable Future. 2014. Soil Safety Resource Guide for Urban Food Growers. For analysis of harmful chemicals in soil other than heavy metals: Find a commercial lab certified for “solid and hazardous waste” testing. Contact them about pricing and sampling.
Middletown on the Move—a grant project funded by the CDC ATSDR to City of Middletown PCD Department For more information see: www.middletownctonthemove.com/. Patrice.Barrett@middletownct.gov
Healthy Gardening Safe Soil Use Tips for Home Gardeners
People like to grow fruits and vegetables in their yards, community gardens, or in flower pots and boxes. This brochure will help gardeners learn about where to best plant, how to safely care for, and harvest healthy produce. The benefits of growing vegetables and fruits include:
Fresher and healthier food with more fiber, vitamins, and minerals that may reduce the risk for chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension.
More control over exposure to harmful chemicals used to treat weeds and Insects.
Lower food bills at the grocery store.
Exercise and a chance to do something you enjoy while being outdoors.
If in a community garden, meet and connect with neighbors and other residents.
Where should I put my garden ? There are several things to consider. Find a sunny spot where grass is already growing. Some areas may have environmental problems from past or present use issues. If your house was built before 1978, do not plant a garden near the drip line (on . left). Try to not Always a sunny where grass and weeds already plant choose right near busyspot roads . This is because of lead in older paints and grow. If yourGardening house wasmay builtincrease before 1978, not put your gasoline. your do chance of exposure to chemicals when eating the fruits or vegetables grown there and breathing in the soil particles. Try to find out the history of your land to learn of other possible chemical uses. If you think your garden areas may have high levels of chemicals, the only way to be sure is to test the soil with a certified lab. This can be expensive. All urban soils have some lead because of past activities. The question is whether the levels are safe.
How do I grow healthy fruits and vegetables safely ?
Have your soil tested for nutrients and pH. The results usually give advice on what to add to the soil for healthy growing. Add clean compost or manure each year—this makes it less likely plants will take up harmful chemicals. Always know the sources for your soil and compost.
Mulch your soil to avoid splashing on the vegetables and reduces exposure to chemicals.
Follow these safe gardening tips:
If you find chemicals in your soil, grow in raised beds with at least 10-12 inches deep soil or large pots . Use untreated wood (not pressure treated, painted, or railroad ties) to make the raised beds. Wear gloves when gardening. Take off all shoes and gloves before going in the house .
Wash with soap and water after gardening. Do not eat in the garden area.
Avoid letting young children put their hands or toys in their mouths if playing in the garden area.
Try using Integrated Pest Management plans for insects. If must use any pesticides, follow the directions carefully, wear protection, and do not apply near other people. Use protective sunscreen with SPF when outside .
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