Tips For An Eco-Friendly Garden
Jul 17, 2023
When it comes to enjoyable and fulfilling hobbies, few can match the eco-friendly nature of gardening. Caring for the health and well-being of the environment is a priority for many of us, particularly those interested in maintaining a healthy, verdant garden. That said, there are always methods of improving your gardening habits and practices to further benefit the planet. Here are some top tips for maintaining a healthy, environmentally-sustainable garden.
Biological Pest Control
When it comes to maintaining a healthy garden, pest control is vital. However, keeping your plants safe from aphids, thrips, spider mites and other plant-eating critters is often easier said than done. Turning to harsh pesticides for the solution to your pest issues may be tempting, but there are many eco-friendly alternatives available that won’t compromise the quality of your crops. For instance, you could attract beneficial predators, like ladybirds, to your garden by providing water and shelter. You could also introduce nematodes to your soil - these microscopic eelworms are an excellent biological pest control measure, effective against slugs, vine weevils and ants.
Go Organic
Organic growing means gardening without the use of synthetic chemical substances, including pesticides, fungicides, fertilisers and growth regulators. Evidence suggests that organic crops may be healthier, thanks to their higher nutrient levels compared to conventionally grown produce. Moreover, organic gardening practices contribute to safeguarding the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water. Some consumers even believe that organic crops taste better than their conventionally grown counterparts, perhaps since they are well-nourished plants grown in high-quality, organic soil.
Increase Biodiversity
Maintaining a biodiverse garden is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your local ecosystem. By planting a wide variety of flowers, vegetables, herbs, trees and shrubs, you create an excellent habitat for all forms of local wildlife, including insects, birds and mammals. Along with picking wildlife-friendly plants, you can also provide shelter for minibeasts by making a bug hotel out of old palettes, logs, sticks, pinecones and other natural components. If you have enough space, you could even build a small pond to attract amphibians, aquatic insects and newts.
Plant For Pollinators
The importance of pollinators cannot be overstated. Pollinators like bees, butterflies and some species of birds are integral to the resilience of ecosystems and the overall health of the planet. We can all do our part to support and protect pollinators by reconsidering our gardening practices. You can create a safe haven for bees and butterflies by providing food, water and shelter. The plant species that these beneficial winged insects tend to prefer include lavender, rosemary, chives, sunflowers, catmint, and honeysuckle.
Conserve Water
Many of us are keen to limit our water consumption. Not only does conserving water save energy, but it can also help to minimise the effects of local drought and water shortages, particularly during the hotter months. Avoid using a hosepipe or sprinklers to water your garden. Instead, install a water butt to collect rainwater. It is also recommended to water early in the morning or late at night so that it doesn't evaporate in the heat of the day before reaching your plant’s roots.
Another excellent way to conserve water is to consider hydroponics. Despite what the name suggests, hydroponic systems use up to 10 times less water than traditional growing methods. You can purchase a beginner system at a reputable hydroponics UK retailer.
You can read more about how to conserve water in your garden in this article.
Make Your Own Compost
While it may seem convenient to visit your local garden centre and purchase a bag of compost to enhance your soil quality, creating your own compost at home offers a continuous supply of fresh, nutrient-rich compost. The key to excellent compost is the ratio of brown to green components, which is around 1:1; in other words, 50% brown and 50% green.
Brown items, including dead leaves, wood ash, eggshells, sawdust and shredded cardboard, are carbon-rich, woody materials that provide food for the soil-dwelling organisms that help break down the contents of your compost pile. On the other hand, green items, such as raw vegetable scraps, grass clippings, coffee grounds and fresh manure, are the nitrogen-rich quick-to-decompose materials that facilitate airflow and provide vital nutrients and moisture.