Helpful hints How to Be Environmentally Conscious
Plants are a great way to not only enhance our living areas but also enhance our lives. Plants combat the greenhouse effects by producing oxygen and also improving water quality. Great care must be taken when choosing the right plant for its specific design. Sustainable horticulture is a big part of our world, and here's how we can all contribute.
Natives Choosing the right plants for the area
For long-term plantings, choose varieties that are native to your area, or have similar requirements. Non natives can require more water and nutrients, or could attract unwanted diseases, so always check with your local nursery or look on the local government website for local advice.
Stop the WeedsAvoiding the use of chemicals and pesticides
Avoid using chemical pesticides and herbicides where possible. Instead, use paper or mulching to stop weeds emerging (reduce water and light), or better still, pull the weeds out before they reseed. Planting competition is another good way to reduce weeds, so select wisely. (Densely planted perennials and ground covers smother weeds.)
CompostingUsing rich organic matter on the garden
Composting is a great way to reduce wastage and take advantage of free organic matter. Utilise your vegetable scraps, newspapers, teabags, eggshells, etc to provide nutrition for the soil and plants. There are many different composting devices to suit your garden, from bins to worm farms, but you can also just dig a hole or set aside a composting area that's regularly turned and covered in leaves or hay. Once your waste is starting to decompose, you can use it as mulch for the garden, and start to enjoy the benefits.
Grow your ownKnow what you're eating
If you're concerned with the pricing, spray residues, treatment or origin of the vegetables you're buying, opt for an organic style. Whether in a patio pot or in the garden, growing your own crops will be a lot healthier for yourself and the environment. Set up a low maintenance garden by using water drippers, raised beds, and your own organic mulch, avoiding those chemical sprays. Your crops may not have that perfect colour or shape you find in the supermarket, but that means nature is working, and you'll definitely taste the difference.
Companion plantingDetering the pests
Companion planting is a fantastic way to avoid using those chemical pest sprays. Most gardening catalogues will let you know what to plant together, as some plants need protecting and some companions can deter the pests.
