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Ecological Gardening: Principles to Grow By | Empress of Dirt
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Many of us started gardening before we ever understood the ecological impact of our choices. Little did we know how seemingly innocuous decisions like plant selections, soil amendments, or pest management can have very different outcomes, either helping or harming the environment. While one garden alone may not make a big impact, the cumulative effect of millions of us toiling away in our yards really adds up.
If you’re like me, the shift toward eco-beneficial gardening is an ongoing process. There’s always more to learn, research, debate, and decide. The ideas (below) share some principles to guide the way. It’s a work in progress but, I hope, steering things in the right direction.
Shifting to Eco-Beneficial Gardening
This is not a competition! If the goal is to benefit the environment with our gardens, we need all hands on deck. But we’re not getting there through force, shaming, or coercion. I just think back to how I opened my eyes to environmental issues—and I learn more each day—and it surely did not happen by someone reprimanding me.
A few years ago I scoured research to learn how we can get our neighbors to accept eco-friendly garden choices. Turns out, people are far more accepting if they know, like, and trust you. No surprise, really. Kindness and caring do wonders to ease the fear of change or unconventional choices.
We are, admittedly, in quite a pickle right now with climate and pollution concerns. Like all big shifts, change will come through countless approaches. Protest. Legislation. Consumer demand. Responsible brands. Innovation. Resourcefulness. Community initiatives. Bylaw changes. A shift in thinking. The list goes on. Choose what resonates and go for it!
From my little patch of earth one thing I know for sure is, gardening is much easier when you put the earth first. Harmful choices are not an option and there’s no sense sweating the small stuff.
Ecological Garden Tips
Growing a Healthy Ecosystem
Is my garden part of a healthy ecosystem?
Here are some goals:
- Healthy soil, air, and water free of pollutants, herbicides, and pesticides.
- Plants that provide food and habitat for local wildlife as part of greater eco-corridors.
- Regenerative, sustainable, climate-smart attributes including sequestering carbon dioxide and natural water filtration and management.
You can read more ecological gardening tips here.
Welcome Pollinators
Invasive Species
Invasive species alert: always check that any plant you want to add to your garden is suited to plant hardiness zone and growing conditions, supports local wildlife, and is not considered an invasive species in your area.
Wait! Before You Plant…
Be sure any plants you choose:
- Are recommended for your plant hardiness zone.
- Are not invasive in your area.
- Are suitable for your growing conditions including sun, soil, water, and wind.
- Contribute to biodiversity by providing food, nectar, or habitat for wildlife.
- Are not too big for the space available when they reach maturity.
You can read more ecological gardening tips here.
Pest & Disease Management
Problem-Solving Tips for Ecological Gardeners
Dealing with possible pests or diseases
- Is this really a long-term problem or simply part of the eco-system?
Never take action without understanding both the issue and the overall effects of any possible remedies. - What will happen if I leave it be?
Most problems resolve on their own with time. Many “pests” have natural predators—give them time to do what they do best. - Will the remedy or solution cause other harm?
It’s rare that a product or solution does not cause residual harm either through manufacturing, use, or disposal. Hand-picking a multitude of snails may be fine. Zapping insects that contribute to the environment? Not so much. - Are there better uses for my time or money?
- Are my garden choices contributing to a healthy ecosystem?
You can read more ecological gardening tips here.
Eco-Beneficial Gardening Books
Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants | Doug Tallamy
Garden Allies: The Insects, Birds, & Other Animals that Keep Your Garden Beautiful and Thriving | Frederique Lavoipierre
The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife (How to Create a Sustainable and Ethical Garden that Promotes Native Wildlife, Plants, and Biodiversity) | Nancy Lawson
The Pollinator Victory Garden | Kim Eierman
Read More
~Melissa the Empress of Dirt ♛
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Melissa J. Will
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