Embracing Eco-Friendly Gardening Practices

Happy January, I hope everyone had a great start to the New Year! T

his month we are answering the question “How can I be sustainable in my garden? ”

Sustainable gardening involves practices that minimize the environmental impact while promoting long-term ecological balance. You can turn kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost which can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and decrease landfill waste. Pick a place away from the house in your backyard and start composting! The soil from this is beautiful.

Using efficient watering techniques like drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting helps conserve water, a precious resource. Plants love rainwater! Having a rain barrel or even just buckets to catch the rain off a roof is great. Houseplants also love it!

Avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers reduces chemical runoff and supports a healthier ecosystem. Use a mix of sand, peat moss, and manure compost to create an ideal growing environment. Water gardens in the morning to help ward off diseases like powdered mildew. This will allow the sun to dry the plant leaves throughout the day and help them stay healthy and strong. Choosing native plant species supports local ecosystems, requires fewer resources, and attracts native wildlife.

Applying mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and enhances soil fertility, reducing the need for irrigation and chemical weed control. Mulch can help retain moisture, but it is important to use the right kind and not over-mulch. The best mulch for tomato plants is a loose material such as straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips. These materials allow air and water to pass through, helping to maintain the ideal moisture levels in the soil. These practices can help you toward more eco-friendly gardening habits.

If you would like me to answer one of your questions next month you can send your question to me at [email protected] attention Ask Anna and stop by Harvest on the corner of Vincent Massey and Powerdam and also at 75 Cornwall Centre Road to pick up your copy of The Seeker each month.