Sustainable Landscaping Tips

Follow these steps for a healthy, sustainable garden

Choosing Plants

• Select plants appropriate to your garden’s conditions
• Consider hours of sunlight, moisture levels, proximity to buildings and competing plants
• When plant shopping, ask about mature heights and spreads to allow adequate space
• Match the plant’s specific needs with the level of care you’re willing to provide

Waterwise Thinking

• Water less frequently, but more deeply to encourage roots to grow into soils that are more moist
• Collect rain water in barrels or watering cans
• Mulch garden beds
• Water in the morning to prevent evaporation
• Improve drainage to prevent pooling or excessive runoff
• Reduce lawn areas where unnecessary and replant with perennial or shrub beds

Pest Management

• Identify pests and diseases before selecting a control: garden centre staff can help you with this, and provide you with organic and least-toxic options
• Use organic fertilizers, soil additives or compost to reduce chemical fertilizer applications
• Add plants that attract beneficial insects

Wildlife Habitats

• Include native plant species where suitable to the garden environment
• Add flowering, nectar-producing plants for insects, birds and butterflies
• Place a bird bath, pond or other water source for wildlife
• Vary the height and density of plantings to create a diverse habitat

Renata Triveri owns Greenbridge Horticultural Advantage, a communications company serving the green industry. Reprinted with permission from Home Makeover Magazine.