Many of us are concerned about our impact on the environment and what we can do to help. We all want to be that little bit greener but when it comes to our gardens are we doing enough? Dino composite decking has some great suggestions and you’ll find one of them below. So let’s take a look at how you can make your garden more environmentally friendly.
Plant Drought-Resistant Plants
We tend to use a lot of water in our gardens which can make us wonder whether we’re using too much. If you would like to cut down on your water usage you may want to plant drought-resistant plants. Plants such as these will thrive even in the hottest of months. Small palms are ideal for patio areas and fan palms (Thought to be the toughest out there) are also ideal for patios.
If you would like some drought-resistant plants in your flowerbeds opt for plants with silvery leaves. Plants such as these look good and will withstand long periods without any water. Opt for Artemisia ‘Powis Castle’ or any type of lavender.
When it comes to planting against walls use Campsis as it’s very hardy or the Golden Hop.
Use Solar Powered Lighting
There is a lot of outdoor lighting available these days, online and in garden centres. To ensure your garden is as environmentally friendly as possible you should use solar powered lighting.
You can find solar powered fairy lights, lanterns, jars and so much more. What’s more is lights also look good when they highlight your path or even your back door. Solar-powered lights can also be used as a security light while saving on your electricity bill.
Opt for Composite Decking
If you would like to build some decking in your garden you need to opt for composite decking. This type of decking is made from recycled wood and recycled plastic. You know the plastic that you take to the tip or put out to be collected? This is the type of plastic that’s used in composite decking.
This type of decking looks good, there’s no doubt about that, but it also ensures a lot less energy is used in its creation. So step away from wooden or plastic decking and use composite decking instead.
Another benefit of using composite decking is it needs very little looking after. This means you won’t have to coat it in chemicals or any deck-staining materials.
Collect Rainwater
Rainwater is absolutely ideal if you want to have a constant supply of water that plants love. Rainwater is ideal as it has the right amount of alkaline and acid. In fact, plants prefer rainwater to tap water. Use water butts around your garden and if you can, connect them to your guttering.
If you choose to use a water butt that’s standing alone make sure you cover the top of it with a mesh that ensures insects and leaves don’t fall in. Using a water butt is great as it means you’re more likely to have enough water even in the driest of summers.
Reuse Materials
If you’re always buying new tubs and pots for your garden you may want to think again. Reusing materials that you already have is the best way to make your garden more environmentally friendly. Use buckets, tin baths, old wooden pallets or boxes. Not only will you save a bit of money you’ll also ensure that the energy used to make those items is not wasted.
Cut Down on your use of Chemicals
While some chemicals seem to do the job in your garden they can be quite harmful to wildlife and other plants. You can do your bit for the environment by cutting down on your use of chemicals. For example, use copper rings to help you control slugs. Use a strong jet of water to push greenflies off plants. Control black spot disease by planting chives and onions around roses.
Make Improvements to your Soil
Using compost and some well-rotted manure is the ideal way to improve your soil. What’s more is you will also make your garden more environmentally friendly. Soil that has had compost and manure used on and in it is usually awash with some very healthy micro-organisms that will help to feed your plants. What’s more is compost is very good at soaking up water making it ideal for sandy soil.
It’s perfectly possible for you to make your garden more environmentally friendly without you having to spend too much money. Using solar powered lighting, reusing materials and collecting rainwater is a good way to start making your garden a little greener. Don’t forget to opt for composite decking or to cut down on your use of chemicals. All of these small changes can make you and your garden more environmentally friendly.