Planting a flower or vegetable garden is a fun activity that anyone can do, and it’s even great for the environment. But, there are some ways to make your garden more eco-friendly than it already is. Making a few small eco-friendly changes to your garden will help you reduce waste, promote growth, and naturally keep your garden pest-free. For more information visit https://www.thecarparkman.co.
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Plant pollinator-friendly plants
Plants and flowers are beautiful to look at, but specific species of plants and flowers can invite pollinators to your yard. Pollination is key to the growth of almost every plant, flower, and tree on Earth. Buying and planting pollinator-friendly seeds from places such as Nature’s Seed will help your local ecosystem and support the bird and bee populations.Â
Pollinators, like bees, play a vital role in cross-pollination, which is the transfer of pollen between the male and female cones of flowers. They do this by brushing against flowers, ultimately collecting pollen and taking it to other nearby flowers.Â
Start composting
Making a compost bin can significantly reduce waste around your house and help your garden simultaneously. You can easily find compost bins online and in stores and place them in your yard. You can put natural waste in them, such as:
- Food scraps
- Yard clippings
- Coffee and tea grounds
- Leaves
To compost, you’ll fill the bin with this organic waste, soil, and water. Microorganisms will break it all down over time. Then you’ll have nutrient-rich soil to give to your plants.Â
Use mulch
Mulch is a great way to keep the roots of plants at the perfect temperature and helps soil retain moisture. Because mulch retains moisture, you’ll be watering your plants less and saving water. Mulch acts as a barrier over roots to protect them from the outside elements. It can even protect your plant beds from excess weeds.
To keep your garden eco-friendly, you should opt for a natural or organic mulch, which is usually just wood chips. Some types of mulch have plastic in them, so pay attention to the ingredients in the mulch you buy.
Use natural pest control
Pesticides are horrible for the environment, so going the natural route is always best. Pesticides containing harmful chemicals can easily contaminate bodies of water nearby, creating a whole slew of problems for the environment and humans. Using natural remedies made with household ingredients is better for the environment and you.
Some natural pesticides include:
- A spray made of soap and water
- A mix made of onion or garlic and water
- Eucalyptus essential oilsÂ
Use less water
Don’t waste water by using a sprinkler. Evaporation and wind can easily waste your water with sprinkler devices. And not to mention the energy needed for them. To save water and energy, you should use a hose and immediately shut it off after watering. Only use what your plants need.
To be even more eco-friendly, you could also set up a rain collection bin or bucket and use this rainwater to water your plants. This way, you won’t even need to use your running water.
Final Thoughts
Planting things in your yard is the perfect way to spruce up your outdoor living space, but you should always be mindful of the environment when doing so. Being eco-friendly with your planting isn’t tricky, and it won’t put a big dent in your wallet. So, get planting and make your yard a healthy addition to the Earth.
