Healthy root systems develop when plants, like this tomato, are grown in compost-enriched organic soil

MOQ editor/publisher Sharon Parker is now writing a garden column in
Southside Pride, the first of which appeared in the May editions and also on the Daily Planet. The overall theme is organic gardening, and the focus is on how working with nature instead of against it is not only better for the environment, but also much easier than complicated chemically based approaches.

Consistent with the perspective of our quarterly magazine, MOQ, Parker's approach to gardening celebrates nature in the city and offers an uncomplicated way to harness natural forces to create and enjoy a low-maintenance landscape.

The May column emphasizes the importance of soil conditioning through the use of compost and mulch as the first element of successful organic gardening. The June column describes how to facilitate air circulation to keep plants healthy without the use of sprays -- organic or otherwise -- to prevent and mitigate plant diseases such as powdery mildew.

Look for future columns in each edition of Southside Pride throughout the growing season.