In the world of gardening, Bonnie Plants stands as a well-recognized name, serving gardeners across the nation with a variety of vegetables and herbs. Founded in 1918, this Alabama-based company has bloomed over the decades, spreading its green offerings to all 50 states.
As the importance of organic and non-GMO plants becomes increasingly apparent to conscious consumers today, one question often arises – are Bonnie Plants organic?
Table of Contents
Are Bonnie Plants Organic and non GMO?
Bonnie Plants offers a USDA-certified organic line, which adheres to organic farming practices and is strictly non-GMO. To identify their organic plants, look for the USDA Organic seal on their labels. This certification from the United States Department of Agriculture is proof that the plants have been grown according to recognized organic farming standards.
Thus, consumers can be confident about the organic status of these specific Bonnie Plants products.
While Bonnie Plants does have an extensive organic offering, it is essential to note that not all Bonnie Plants are organic.
Alongside their Organic Line, the company also provides a regular line of plants. The regular line includes various vegetables, herbs, and flowers grown using traditional methods that may include synthetic, yet safe, fertilizers and pesticides.
No need for Pesticides/ Insecticides
One of the most impressive areas that Bonnie Plants have been able to master is their ability to grow without using synthetic chemical-based pesticides or insecticides. They can instead utilize methods such as organically maintaining yards and vegetable gardens.
This can be achieved by building an advanced growth ecosystem that aims to maintain and feed the plants, as well as soil microorganisms and beneficial insects.
Additionally, crop rotation strategies can also be used to help minimize access to common plant intruders in the form of pests and insects.
Then there is the fine-tuning aspect, aided by applying organic pesticides/insecticides such as Salt Spray, Neem, Onion And Garlic Spray, Chrysanthemum Flower Tea, Eucalyptus Oil, etc.
Bonnie Plants are Non-Gmo
It is well documented that Bonnie Plants do not use any form of genetic engineering to produce its plants. Meaning they are compliant with the Non-GMO Project Standard, which of course, includes extensive testing.
This also includes all ingredients used to make the plants, such as fertilizers and pesticides. As well as providing traceability and segregation to all plants and ingredients involved.
USDA approval
Organic plants with USDA certification must be grown, processed and produced following strict federal guidelines. They must adhere to a range of factors such as soil quality, pest and weed control, animal raising practices (in the case of manure as fertilizer), and other contributing additives.
Is Bonnie harvest selected organic?
Bonnie Plants have some amazing accessories to compliment their plants. The best part about them is that they are all 100% organic. One of the most advantageous growing accessories is their “Select” range of raised bed soil.
This organic soil offers all the essential nutrients required for the strong and healthy production of plants, flowers and vegetables. It’s premixed, so nothing else needs to be added. It is also extremely super simple to use.
What kind of soil does Bonnie Plants use?
One of the biggest reasons Bonnie Plants can produce plants with strong, healthy root systems is due to the type of soil they use. A strong root system allows the nutrients to be utilized effectively, which as a result, cultivates good quality plants.
Bonnie Plants have tested and fine-tuned an organic potting mix consisting of mainly composted bark, peat moss, and some other smaller organic particles. These prime ingredients balance optimum drainage, water retention and aeration.
Why are Harvesting Organic Bonnie starter plants more beneficial than Organic seedlings?
There’s a big difference between growing and harvesting an organic Bonnie starter plant and an organic seedling. Seedlings need more time, energy and resources to grow to the point the starter has already reached. Then there are all the elements the seedling needs to compete against.
Including potential issues with too much or little sunlight, extreme temperature fluctuations, wind, optimal water, soil and nutrients. The factors can be overwhelming.
On the other hand, Organic starter plants such as the Bonnie starter range are more resistant to pests and disease. Additionally, they already have the strength built up to enable them to be planted as soon they leave the store.
All of the initial hard work is already done for you. Although growing something from seedlings is rewarding, starter plants can still be a great option to help avoid wasting time, money and energy caring for the seedlings.
How do you grow Bonnie plants?
Growing Bonnie Plants can be an enriching experience that adds beauty to your garden and fresh produce to your table, but how do you ensure your plants thrive? Here’s a detailed guide to help you successfully grow Bonnie Plants.
Step 1: Select the Right Variety of Bonnie Plants
Bonnie Plants offers a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Selection should be based on your climate zone, the space available, and your gardening goals (Are you interested in aesthetics? Do you plan to cook using your home-grown veggies?).
When you’re buying your plants, look for green and robust foliage without visible signs of disease or pest infestation.
If buying Bonnie Plants’ seedlings from garden centers, check if the plants are dry; Bonnie Plants come in biodegradable pots that need to be kept consistently moist.
Step 2: Prepare Your Garden Space
To prepare your garden, first remove any weeds or stones from the area. For vegetables and most herbs, choose a location with plenty of sun; most vegetables need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well.
When it comes to soil, Bonnie Plants thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. If your soil is sandy or full of clay, consider making your own garden mix which can improve its texture and nutrient capacity.
Step 3: Planting Your Bonnie Plants
Each plant comes in a biodegradable pot, which Bonnie Plants have designed to be planted directly into the ground to reduce plastic waste.
You can tear off the bottom and remove the rim of the pot before planting to ensure root contact with the soil and avoid wicking of water away from the roots respectively.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant’s size. Position the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly below the soil surface. Backfill with soil, pressing gently but firmly to secure the plant and eliminate air pockets. Water immediately after planting.
Step 4: Regular Care and Maintenance
Regular watering is essential for Bonnie Plants to thrive. Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the soil, resulting in healthier, more resilient plants. The amount of water depends on the plant species and the local climate.
For vegetables, two to three inches of organic mulch can help retain soil moisture, reduce weed problems, and maintain stable soil temperatures.
Look for pests regularly. If pests are spotted, natural measures like introducing beneficial insects, homemade organic sprays, and hand-picking (for larger pests) can be practiced.
Step 5: Harvesting
For vegetables and herbs, harvest size and growing period vary depending on the variety. Ensure you are familiar with the specifics of each plant, so you know when to start harvesting your home-grown produce.
Growing Bonnie Plants can be a rewarding endeavor that enlivens your garden and graces your table with fresh, home-grown produce.
Adhering to the steps outlined above will help ensure that your gardening experience with Bonnie Plants is a successful one.
Remember to monitor your plants regularly and adjust your care methods as needed, as Bonnie Plants – like all living things – respond best to attention, care, and respect.
Are Bonnie tomato plants any good?
All Bonnie plants have received positive reviews. The tomato range is no different. Bonnie Plants has around 50 or so tomatoes to choose from, which is amazing! They are non-GMO, so they taste like real organically grown tomatoes should.
It’s strange to think that we don’t know what real organically grown tomatoes should taste like these days. Another welcoming upside is their ease of growth. The Bonnie Plants tomatoes arrive at your door ready to be planted without delay. The fact that they are already grown to the point of starters removes many of the teething problems.
You may find useful: How to Lower pH in Water for Plants Organically
Conclusion:
Bonnie Plants have been around for over 100 years. During this time, they have managed to produce easy-to-use plants at an affordable price.
Their website offers step-by-step guides that assist with everything from planting to harvesting. This makes them extremely popular for any level of growing experience. We hope that this article has been helpful.
