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Gardening

Green gardening in 2008

In 2008 fashion trends are bringing an environmentally friendly approach to gardening. In recent years people have adopted a distinct “green” attitude to the way they live. Green thinking and eco friendly methods are being applied to homes, lifestyles and gardens. Here, we cover some tips for a sustainable and eco friendly garden.

Plant indigenous
Indigenous plants will require less attention as they are native to the area and more suited to the environmental conditions. They will also attract favourable insects and native birds to your garden. In drier climates indigenous plants will need less watering than exotic plants – allowing for valuable water saving and less effort from the gardener, you.

Watering
To save water, use drip irrigation. This is a system of pipes in your garden with holes in particular places to water plants. Drip irrigation is better than traditional hoses and sprinklers, as water is directed to the plant and there is less opportunity for evaporation, thereby saving water.

Grow your own food
Use your garden to grow organic food; a natural alternative to supermarket vegetables and fruit. Organically grown food is a healthy option, where you know that no herbicides or toxic fertilisers were used. Make your garden work for you, supplying fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs for cooking.

Compost and Mulch
Create a compost heap using organic waste. Mulch the material and spread it over your garden to improve the quality of the soil. Mulching is a natural food for the soil and plants, replacing chemical-based fertilisers, enriching the soil and assisting in water-retention.

Recycle
Use plastic containers and old bottles to create mini-hot houses. These are handy for protecting your organic food from pests and extreme weather conditions. Good plastic containers can also be used as plant pots in your garden.

Alternatives to pesticides
Try eco friendly pesticides. Green companies have developed ranges of bio-pesticides. Eco friendly pesticides use natural products to target certain bug species. Find a supplier of bio-pesticides on the internet or try a local nursery or garden centre.

Use your garden as a source of food and enjoy the benefits of having a sustainable, eco friendly garden. Going green in your garden may require a bit of effort and planning in the early stages, however, in the long term you will find that these eco friendly methods help your garden to take care of itself.