Eco Gardens

Any little bit that we can contribute to the earth in our own yards is a benefit for all. This does not mean we can't have what we like in our yards, it just means adding a few things we might not have normally thought of. I like to think I am participating on an above average scale. I have fruits and vegetables growing in my yard, many trees, a mulch bin, solar lighting and a limited amount of grass.

As a society we have fallen in love with perfectly sodded lawns but unfortunately they do very little for the environment, if anything it's a detriment. Most of the fertilizers are harmful to wetlands and waterways. Excessive nitrogen from grass clippings can upset the natural balance. Obviously lawns are not going to disappear but limiting the amount of lawn and planting more beneficial things like trees, shrubs and flowers will help a great deal.

Trees and shrubs are a very basic but beneficial way to add health to the eco system. Trees and shrubs provide oxygen and filter carbon and pollutants from the air. It's always better to try and stay with species that are native to your region and to avoid invasive species. They also provide homes and food for native birds and wildlife which further strengthens the eco system.

Growing your own fruits and vegetables is another great way to save energy, through less demand, and contribute to the eco garden environment. It does not have to be an elaborate vegetable garden or grove of trees. Plant a couple of trees and a few vegetables and it makes a difference. I have strawberries, that produce all summer, raspberries, cranberries, a peach tree, cherry tree, tomato plants, pepper plants and herbs scattered throughout my yard. I have no dedicated bed, rather I like to mixed my flowers with fruits and vegetables.

In order to keep all my plants happy I added water features to attract the insects necessary to pollinate my fruits. I might be using a little energy to circulate the water but the water is not lost and it attracts many species which are required to create a balanced eco system.

Rain barrels and compost bins help conserve natural resources. Rain barrels are a great way to use water that is otherwise wasted in run off and it's healthier for plants. Composting is a way to save money, lessen the amount going into dumps and is also great for plants. People are always asking me how I get my plants so big, it's the mulch I create from the compost bin. Solar lighting is another great way to save energy and still light the yard. Solar lighting has improved greatly in recent years, they now hold a charge for long periods and the rechargable batteries last much longer.

You can even conserve buy using things that would normally be garbage in the dump. I like to consider items for the yard before I throw them away. I used an old wheelbarrel as a planter, some old wine barrels as planters, broken up concrete mixed in with stones and scrap wood to build a bench. Many things that may be considered garbage can be incorporated into the yard and be very attractive.

Eco gardens are a great way to help our earth and still enjoy our outdoor living spaces.