DECATUR - Marge Evans has been gardening since 1953.

An in those 55 years, she has not used a single pesticide or herbicide.

Instead, Evans, 78, uses her spray bottle of soapy water to keep pests off her produce.

She's also a fan of companion gardening, which is based on the idea that some plants can benefit others when planted next to or nearby.

"I think nature has its own way of taking care of things," Evans said.

Evans plants rhubarb next to squash to keep squash bugs away. She also believes planting tomatoes and lettuce next to each other enhances the flavor of each plant.

Jennifer Nelson, unit educator in horticulture for the University of Illinois Extension in Macon County, said she has seen companion gardening work. However, she said, not much scientific evidence exists for the practice.

"These are generally methods that are home remedies," Nelson said.

Jim Brown of Argenta has heard of using companion plants but doesn't practice that method. Instead, he rotates what he plants in areas of his lawn. The plant rotation keeps the garden free from diseases and continual pests, he said.

Recent salmonella and E. coli scares in the produce section have put the spotlight on natural gardening techniques.

However, for people such as Brown, it is their common practice.

Brown has been growing a natural garden since 1993, at the urging of his wife. The biggest part of going natural for him was the soil, which he says took a lot of time to amend. He uses compost and other organic matter to boost it.

"(My soil) is good, but not as good as it could be," Brown said.

He recommends that anyone interested in becoming a natural gardener brush up on the subject before beginning to plant.

Brown often grows onions and melons. Some of the vegetables he harvests used to end up at farmers' markets, but in recent years, he has reduced the size of his garden. Now, he grows more for his family, but it is still not uncommon for his wife to use some of the garden surplus for Christmas presents.

Meanwhile, much of what comes out of Evans' garden makes its way onto her table.

"It's healthier to eat what you grow," Evans said.

Kristy Mellendorf can be reached at 421-6977 or kmellendorf@herald-review.com.

Tips

* Do research before investing in gardening products, as some are not always safe.

* When searching for garden help, consider the source of information.

* Read the labels on any product to be used in the garden and follow all directions.

* Keep in mind it is unreasonable to think a pest-free environment can be created.

* If using any sprays, don't spray before pests arrive.

* Exercise caution and control when using any home remedy gardening method.

* Pay attention to locations of plants. Make sure the plants are getting the right shade and water requirements.

Source: Jennifer Nelson, unit educator for the University of Illinois Extension