Obamas plant organic White House garden - 'Big Ag' gets upset

Obamas plant organic White House garden - 'Big Ag' gets upset

US President Barack Obama has demonstrated his backing for organics on a personal level, by starting an organic fruit and vegetable garden on the White House south lawn.


First Lady Michelle Obama, with the help of local school students, broke ground for the 102 square-meter garden last week. It will provide as many as 55 different fruits and vegetables for use in the White House kitchen. Some of the produce will be donated to a nearby soup kitchen.

The new garden, the first of its kind since Eleanor Roosevelt planted a victory garden during World War II, made headlines and brought some positive news and brightness to a nation that has been inundated by negative economic news.


But not everyone is happy. Some interests in conventional agriculture appear nervous about the Obama's public backing for organics. The Mid America CropLife Association, a group that backs conventional chemical farming, wrote to Mrs Obama with a word of warning:


"As you go about planning and planting the White House garden, we respectfully encourage you to recognize the role conventional agriculture plays in the US in feeding the ever-increasing population, contributing to the US economy and providing a safe and economical food supply. America's farmers understand crop protection technologies are supported by sound scientific research and innovation."


Mrs Obama has named White House chef Sam Kass to head the White House Food Initiative. Mr Kass is a strong advocate for organic and local food sourcing.


Prior to last year's election, the Obamas were in regular contact with advocates of organic food, who provided information about how organics can lead to healthier eating habits, while reducing reliance on huge, energy-intensive and chemical-driven industrial farms.

President Obama has publicly endorsed organic farming and now he appears to be demonstrating his personal support with new White House garden. The garden will be fertilized with White House compost, crab meal from the Chesapeake Bay, lime and green sand. Ladybirds and praying mantises will help control harmful bugs.