Here's how you can help the planet to celebrate Earth Day — starting in your garden
Show the planet a little love this Earth Day by using your garden to help the world's ecosystem. From growing on your own delicious veggies to reducing usage, small actions can make a big difference.
Giving nature a helping hand starts in the home. To help you create an eco-friendly outside space, The Greenhouse People have revealed some of the ways you can be more sustainable this summer. Take a look at their advice below.
1. Create a haven for wildlife
Think you haven't got space for a wildlife garden? Think again! From leaving wild patches of grass to creating an insect hotel, there are many great ways you can turn your garden into a haven for bees, birds and butterflies.
One of the easiest things you can do this summer is invest in a bird bath. Not only will the water add character to your space, but it will also encourage wildlife into your garden all year round. Make sure to change the water every few days so it stays fresh.
2. Grow your own
Growing your own fruits and vegetables might take a little planning, but you'll have a crop of fresh produce in no time. As well as providing tasty salad essentials, it's a brilliant way to cut back on industrial pesticides.
"Growing your own food can do wonders for the environment and your health," says the Greenhouse People. 'If you already grow your own, consider going one step further and producing your own soil with a compost bin, using and garden waste.'
3. Green borders
Planting your own trees will help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, while also providing private shaded spots.
Not sure which ones to choose? The Greenhouse People advises: "Choose hedges over walls for your perimeters. Not only can they climb higher as they mature, they have sound absorbing qualities to block out nosy neighbors and make ideal nesting sites for birds."
4. Companion planting
Companion planting — an organic method of maintaining a natural balance in your garden — will help keep pest numbers down. If you're planning your summer garden scheme, plant the right varieties and species next to each other. Garlic and rose plants, for example, work wonderfully together as the powerful garlic smell will repel pests from eating rose petals. Isn't nature clever!
5. Reduce your water usage
Fresh water is a precious natural resource, so it's important we do our part to protect it. Not sure where to start? Some of the things you can do include planting drought-tolerant plants, installing a water butt and reusing washing-up water to feed flowers. As well as protecting the planet, you'll also reduce those soaring bills.
The Greenhouse People also recommends: "In dry spells, always prioritize water-use by which plants need it most. Top of the list comes young plants, greenhouses, hanging baskets and window boxes. Teach self-reliance for older trees, lawns and hedges which can survive for longer periods."