Sustainable Gardening Tips
The grass is turning greener and buds are popping up on the branches. Spring is on its way! Like us, maybe the changing of the season is inspiring you to get your gardening on. Gardening really comes down to four simple things: seeds, soil, energy (including light), and water. In each of these categories, we have a few tips to grow your best, most sustainable garden yet!
When it comes to sustainable seed sourcing, one of the easiest and most cost-saving things to do is simply save seeds from food scraps or the previous year’s crops. Many times we purchase or grow produce and simply compost or throw away the cores and pits after we consume the fruit, but those are *free* seeds for this year’s garden! You can store seeds to regrow peppers, tomatoes, legumes, and more.
Did you know, you can get *free* compost and mulch too? Whether you make backyard compost or join a food scrap pick-up service that offers annual compost exchanges, adding compost to your soil acts as natural fertilizer. Also, if you participate in a live-tree recycling event after the holidays, many places offer free mulch in exchange! Mulch on top of your soil can help reduce weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
Incorporating light and shade into your garden plans can help you avoid water waste and scorching plants. Compare plant heights to avoid too little or too much shade on the plants next to them. If you are planting trees, check the distance from your house and whether and how you want them to block the light into your windows to help control temperature. You can also save energy by using a push-mower and hand-weeding areas (which also avoids nasty chemicals).
Finally there is water. As previously mentioned, garden planning, shade, and mulch go a long way in reducing the water needs of your plants. You can also try drip-irrigation hose systems rather than sprinklers to avoid evaporation, as well as collect water in rain barrels to use during dryer seasons.
Considering sustainability and waste is an important part of growing a successful, healthy garden. Maintaining simple, eco-friendly practices in gardening will help you enjoy your garden this spring and long into the future!