How should Gen Zers cultivate their own eco-friendly garden?

For Gen Z, who are becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues and their impact on future generations, eco-friendly gardening is an important way to make a positive impact.

It is no secret that the world’s environment is facing a crisis. With the increasing concerns about climate change and environmental degradation, eco-friendly gardening has become a popular way for individuals to contribute to a sustainable future.

New research from the University of Sheffield suggests that policymakers should offer incentives, such as council tax or water bill discounts, to encourage gardeners to use environmentally friendly techniques to help combat climate change and boost communities’ health and wellbeing.

The research states that in the UK, gardens account for a third of all urban areas and are essential in keeping buildings and city environments cool, absorbing rain to avoid flooding, and providing a refuge for wildlife.

However, many gardens are not green and lack the appropriate plants that benefit the environment in meaningful ways.

So, what is the difference between normal gardening and its eco-friendly equivalent?

Normal gardening typically involves using chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides to promote plant growth and control pests and weeds. These chemicals can have harmful effects on the environment, including water and air pollution, soil degradation, and animal poisoning.

In contrast, eco-friendly gardening avoids the use of synthetic chemicals and instead relies on natural and sustainable methods to promote healthy plant growth and control pests and weeds. The goal of eco-friendly gardening is to create a garden that is not only efficient but also in harmony with the environment, promoting biodiversity and reducing waste and pollution.

Here’s a few steps and further information on how you can get involved in eco-friendly gardens.

You’ll need to pick an ideal location to start

The first step in creating an eco-friendly garden is choosing the right location. The ideal spot is one that receives plenty of sunlight and is sheltered from strong winds, and has access to a water source. Ensure that the garden is not exposed to pollutants that could hinder the growth of your plants.

It is vital to note that eco-friendly gardening is not limited to those who have access to large, outdoor spaces.

Even if you live in a high-rise building, you can still engage in eco-friendly gardening practices. Some tips would be to use sturdy containers that won’t topple over due to strong winds and to use a watering can or install a drip irrigation system if there isn’t a spigot at the garden’s location.

The right type of soil is super important

Once you’ve chosen the location for your garden, it’s time to prepare the soil and healthy soil is the foundation for a healthy garden.

The quality of the soil determines how well your plants will grow and how healthy they will be. Ideally, the soil should be rich in nutrients, well-draining, and free of contaminants such as heavy metals and pesticides.

Organic soil is an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardening as it is free of synthetic chemicals and supports beneficial microorganisms. Additionally, soil that is too sandy or too clay-like may not provide adequate drainage or nutrient absorption. Using mulch around your plants can help retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Engage in sustainable water practices

There are several sustainable practices for water management that can help reduce waste and promote healthy plant growth. One of the most effective ways to conserve water in the garden is by using a drip irrigation system as mentioned earlier. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the roots of the plants, minimizing water loss due to evaporation or runoff.

Another option is to collect and reuse rainwater using a rain barrel. Rainwater is free of most chemicals and minerals found in tap water, making it ideal for watering plants. It’s also important to water plants at the right time of day, such as early morning or late evening, to minimize evaporation and maximize absorption by the plant.

Choose compost over commercial fertilisers

Composting is an essential sustainable practice in eco-friendly gardening that involves turning food and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost.

You can compost a variety of materials, including fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, grass clippings, leaves, and shredded newspaper. It’s important to avoid composting meat, dairy, and pet waste, as they can attract pests and take longer to break down.

Composting not only reduces waste and improves soil health, but it also saves money on buying fertilizers and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by keeping organic waste out of landfills. By incorporating compost into your eco-friendly gardening practices, you can create a more sustainable and healthier garden.