When considering landscaping, and the fact that much of it relates to the natural world, there might be an assumption that everything to do with landscape gardening is environmentally friendly, but that is not true. This is not to suggest that landscaping is a prime offender when it comes to green issues, however, there are some elements of it that are most certainly damaging to the environment.
Often this might be simply that the gardener or landscape designer was not aware that the design, or a feature in their garden was not as kind to our natural world as they thought it might be. In truth, you could apply that to just about any pastime, bobby, or profession. However, as you read through you will see that there are some aspects of landscaping that could be more environmentally friendly.
With that in mind we thought it would be helpful for those who genuinely want to do all they can to aid green issues and in turn help the environment, if we outlined some simple ideas as to how you can make your landscaping more environmentally friendly.
Reduce Your Use Of Chemicals
No surprises for what our first suggestion is, and that is to reduce the number of chemicals that you use for the maintenance of your landscape garden. Whether they be used for killing weeds or for getting rid of unwanted bugs, there are non-chemical alternatives that you can use.
Apart from the effects of the chemicals just within your own garden, you need to consider what processes were gone through to create the product. This would likely be a chemical processing plant that could be pouring out millions of tons and smoke and fumes from its factories, especially if it is situated in a country that has poor environmental laws.
Choose Your Plants Carefully
Did you know that your choice of plants that you grow in your garden can impact the environment? It is true, and here is why that is so. If you select plants that are indigenous to your region, they need less help to grow and to thrive, simply because they are used to the prevailing conditions with respect to heat, moisture, and their ability to resist any local plant diseases.
On the other hand, if you use pants from other parts of the country, or the world for that matter, you may need to provide them with additional nourishment and protection. That can mean you are left with no choice but to use chemical pesticides and fertilisers, which we would rather avoid.
Be Water Aware, And Recycle It Where You Can
Whether you have a water feature or not, you will certainly need water for your garden to some extent, even if it is only to water your plants. However, in all cases, you should seek ways to use recycled water. For the water features use pumps and filters so that the same water is circulating and reducing water usage. Another is to have a rain barrel which can collect water anytime it rains. This water can be used for watering plants, rather than you using mains water every time.
Use Recycled Materials Whenever Possible
We have just mentioned recycling water, but it is not the only recycling opportunity you have in your landscaped garden. Any of the features within it such as decking, fences, and edging can be built using components made from recycled materials. Should you employ an outside contractor to build any of these you should only pick one who uses recycled materials.
