The Future of Sustainable Gardens

As scientists and environmentalists continue to warn us about the impact of our emissions on the planet, we are increasingly looking for eco-friendly and sustainable ways to make a difference for ourselves and future generations.

What better place to start than our own gardens? By reducing reliance on artificial materials and chemicals, we can create greener, more sustainable outdoor spaces.

Here are some of the most effective ways to start, even if you do not have the greenest fingers or the most flexible budget.

Use Permeable Surfaces for Sustainable Gardens

Modern garden magazines often stress the importance of sustainable gardens. Yet their low-maintenance designs frequently rely on concrete and paving. As urbanisation increases, so does the risk of flooding, and we often depend on drains to cope with heavy rain.

To combat this, focus on using permeable surfaces that allow water to drain naturally into the soil. Gravel is a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to solid paving. It is SuDS-compliant, natural, and can even be crushed and reused as hardcore in the future.

The options include quarried gravel and chippings and water-worn stones like Scottish Pebbles and Cobbles. Slate Chippings, a by-product from roof tile manufacturing, are another sustainable option. They are recycled, locally sourced from Wales, and reduce transport emissions. Slate Mulch is ideal for topping plant beds or pots, helping retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Other options include porous asphalt, block paving, or grass reinforced with recycled plastic grids. Gravel Grid is particularly recommended for sloping driveways.

Avoid Chemicals
A sustainable garden thrives on natural solutions rather than harsh chemicals. Eco-friendly alternatives like soda crystals or bicarbonate of soda are safe for pets and wildlife. Dissolve in warm water, apply to stones, leave for a couple of days, and brush away residue. Healthy soil is vital—use peat-free compost or make your own from food waste.

Add a Water Feature
Ponds and small water features, such as bird baths or shallow dishes, support wildlife by providing habitats and drinking spots. By placing pebbles and boulders by water sources, you give small animals and a place to drink from.

Accommodate Animals
And it’s important to make other adjustments for animals such as leaving small gaps in fences for hedgehogs and provide bee baths to help local insects.

Encourage Pollinators
Let small patches of grass grow naturally and plant a mix of native and exotic flowers to attract bees and insects.

Plant Trees
Trees store carbon—planting even one tree helps the environment. Choose sunny spots with fertile soil for healthy growth. And by placing gravel or stones around the base of the tree you help to reduce weeds and conserve water in dry periods.

Use a Water Butt
Collect rainwater to reduce mains water use and provide plants with better-quality water.

Go Local
Grow your own fruit and vegetables or buy locally to lower your carbon footprint and reduce pesticide use. Even a few steps make a big difference for wildlife and the planet.

There are a multitude of small differences you can make to your garden that can start to make a difference to the planet.

 

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