7 ways to make sure your garden is eco-friendly
Your garden may be green but is it as environmentally friendly as it could be? Any green thumb knows gardening is about cultivation and conservation so ensuring your garden is eco-friendly will not only help your plot of paradise thrive but the wider environment as well. No matter how big or small your garden, here are 7 easy ways to make your garden greener.
Make your own compost
Don’t use chemic fertilisers when composting is the best way to give your plants added nutrients. Start a compost bin and you’ll not only feel better throwing out your dinner scraps but your garden will thrive.
Reduce water usage
Adopting a few smart watering techniques will easily reduce precious water usage. Adding mulch to your garden will help hold moisture in the soil for longer which means less watering. Install a drip line as they require half the water used by sprinklers.
Don’t use pesticides
Most of the insects in your garden are beneficial so using a pesticide to kill the minority of pesky bugs will do more harm than good. If your garden does have pests, use an organic pesticide or one targeting that particular pest.
Recycle
Recycle your old pots or buy recycled items. Everyday items like plastic cartons and yoghurt pots can be used as seed trays.
Go native
Plants indigenous to Australia or from areas with similar climates (like Mediterranean plants) not only have a natural defence against pests but flourish in our weather conditions. They are easier to grow, use less water and require less maintenance.
Use rainwater
Why pay for water when you can get it for free? Use a rain barrel or any type of container to catch the rain. Make sure you place a screen over the barrel to keep out any debris.
Companion plant
Many first-time gardeners tend to randomly choose plants for their garden without considering which plants work well together. Known as companion planting, choosing plants that complement each other will help all your plants thrive and fend of pests.
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