Are you looking for a way to keep your garden in tip-top shape this summer while also reducing your environmental footprint? Sustainable gardening practices can help you do just that! From choosing native plants to mulching and composting, there are plenty of eco-friendly tips you can use to keep your garden healthy and beautiful this summer.
Choosing sustainable plants for your garden
When it comes to maintaining a beautiful and sustainable garden during the British summer, the choice of plants you use is key. Opting for sustainable and eco-friendly options will not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also reduce your environmental impact. Here are some tips to help you choose sustainable plants for your garden.
- Native Plants: Native plants are well adapted to local conditions, require less maintenance, and support local wildlife. These plants also tend to use less water and require fewer fertilisers and pesticides than exotic species. The Royal Horticultural Society can tell you which plants and shrubs are native to Britain.
- Perennials: Perennials are a great choice for any garden as they come back year after year, saving you money and time. They also have a deeper root system, making them more resistant to drought and pests, reducing the need for harmful fertilisers and pesticides.
- Edible plants: Consider planting herbs, vegetables, and fruits in your garden. Not only will you have a bountiful supply of fresh produce, but you’ll also save some extra pennies by growing your own.
- Avoid and remove invasive plants: Some plant species are invasive, meaning they spread aggressively, taking over natural habitats and ecosystems. Avoiding such plants will help to prevent harm to native plants and animals. The RHS also has some great advice over invasive plants.
Reduce water waste with eco-friendly irrigation
Water conservation is a crucial aspect of sustainable gardening, especially during the summer months when water usage tends to spike. Fortunately, there are plenty of irrigation techniques that can help you reduce your water usage without sacrificing the health and beauty of your garden.
One popular option is drip irrigation, which involves using hoses with small holes to deliver water directly to the roots of plants. This targeted approach not only minimises water waste, but it also reduces the risk of fungal diseases that can arise from overhead watering. Alternatively, you can fill up recycled plastic bottles with water (2L fizzy pop bottles work great), then take the lid off and put it upside down into the soil. The water will slowly be absorbed into the soil and plants.
Another option is to install a water butt that will collect rainwater, this can then be used to irrigate your garden. Not only does it help to conserve water, but it also ensures that your plants are receiving pure, unchlorinated water that is free from harmful chemicals.
Finally, be sure to monitor your watering schedule carefully, and only water when your plants need it. This means avoiding automatic sprinkler systems that can waste water by running on a fixed schedule regardless of weather conditions. Instead, try to water in the early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler, that way less water is likely to evaporate.
Composting for healthy soil and reduced waste
Composting not only provides a natural and organic source of nutrients for your plants but also helps to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. To start, all you need is a compost bin or container. You can choose to either purchase one or make your own from materials such as wooden pallets or wire mesh. It’s important to ensure that your compost bin has adequate drainage and airflow.
When it comes to composting, the key is to create the right balance of materials. A good rule of thumb is to have a 50/50 mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Green materials include fruit and vegetable scraps, grass clippings, and coffee grounds. Brown materials include dry leaves, cardboard, and shredded paper.
It’s important to avoid adding any meat or dairy products, as these can attract pests and rodents. You should also avoid adding any weeds or plants that have been treated with pesticides. Regularly turning your compost pile will help to speed up the decomposition process and ensure that all materials are broken down evenly. Depending on the size of your compost bin, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for your compost to be ready to use. Once your compost is ready, you can use it on your garden, flower beds, and even your houseplants. The nutrients in the compost will help to promote healthy plant growth and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers.
Avoid harmful pesticides and fertilisers
It may be tempting to reach for a bottle of pesticide when you spot a few bugs on your plants or to fertilise your garden with chemicals for a quick fix, but these products can harm the environment, your health, and the beneficial insects that help keep your garden healthy.
Instead, consider using natural pest control methods, such as planting companion plants that repel pests or using natural predators like ladybugs to control pests. You can also use natural fertilisers such as compost, which enriches your soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilisers. If you must use a pesticide or fertiliser, check the label and opt for an organic and biodegradable option.
Remember, a healthy garden relies on a balanced ecosystem, so try to avoid harsh chemicals that can upset the natural balance and harm beneficial insects. A little bit of patience and effort in finding sustainable solutions can help your garden thrive in a safe and eco-friendly way.
Creating a stunning summer garden can be an exciting prospect for homeowners, but it's important to maintain it properly. From choosing the right plants to avoiding harmful chemicals, there are many ways to maintain your garden while being eco-friendly. By reducing water waste with eco-friendly irrigation, composting for healthy soil, and encouraging biodiversity with native plants and pollinators, you can help your garden thrive while protecting the environment. By taking these steps, you can create a sustainable, beautiful garden that you can enjoy all summer long.
