.png)
With sustainability at the forefront of many actions we take on a daily basis, it makes sense that we try to factor this in when gardening.
Over 87% of British homes have gardens, equalling over 23 million outdoor spaces - This means gardens offer a huge opportunity to support eco-systems and help wildlife thrive.
Here are 4 top tips on how you can help the environment through gardening:
Growing
Gardening organically is the first simple step you can take to implement more sustaible practices in your garden. Chemical pesticides can contaminate soil, water and vegetation, in addition to killing beneficial insects.
As you start to consider spring gardening, there are small steps that can make a big difference:
Weed little and often to avoid the need for harsh chemicals.
Use mulch to block out sunlight where you don't want new growth.
Make your own plant food: Steep nettles or comfrey leaves for 3 weeks, then drain and dilute them before use. Nitrogen-rich nettle leaves are great for foliage, while the potassium in comfrey helps flowering plants grow.
Plants
Particularly with urban gardens in London, encouraging biodiversity can really enhance your outdoor space. Think about planting a variety of shrubs, grasses and flowers. The greater the range, the more diversity of wildlife and insects you will see.
When it comes to creating spaces for pollinators, there are lots of lovely nectar-rich flowers to choose from. Lavender, Salvia, Catmint, to name a few...
Find out how we can help you create a haven for wildlife in your London garden here.
Watering your garden
Saving water plays a key part in sustainable gardening in London, and across the UK. Seep hoses rather thank sprinklers can help conserve water, and mulch can help keep moisture in.
Grey water from the bath or kitchen sink is worth considering during a drought, and won't harm your plants if used for a short period of time only.
Hard Landscaping
When it comes to hard landscaping at home, there are choices you can make to help the environment. Consider natural and recycled materials where possible, moving away from large quantities of concrete.
Hedges can be planted to create boundaries, and sleeper borders to create beds. Low-maintenance materials that don't require ongoing treatment are also a good option, such as composite decking. This is made out of recycled plastic and wood, and does not require the use of harmful chemicals to treat it once installed.
Think about the longer term effects of what goes into your garden - from paving or decking, down to the planters and plants - and you'll be on the right track to working towards a sustainable garden for the future.
Comments