5 Tips for Better Green Gardening

It doesn’t take much to go “green” when gardening, but why not take an extra step to be more water wise while doing it? Gardening practices, such as installing a rain barrel or reducing pesticide use by composting, can be effective in growing happy, healthy plants while keeping the environment clean.

By incorporating these five tips in the planning phase, green gardening can be more effective and sustainable.

1. Reduce fertilizer use by composting: Compost is a soil additive made from decomposing organic materials, like food waste and lawn debris. Because compost naturally contains nutrients plants need, it can be used in place of fertilizer. Whether using a container or creating a pile in the yard, add food scraps, and then cover them with leaves. Eventually, compost will form. For those that don’t use much compost, spread the love and share it with others.

2. Spruce up a porch with potted plants: Whether it’s a traditional terra cotta pot or an old shoe, planting in a container can add some greenery to a porch or sidewalk. Any plant, even trees, can be planted in a container that drains water well. Drainage holes can be added if a container does not have them. These plants need plenty of room to grow and a nutrient additive, such as compost or fertilizer.

3. Choose native plants and trees for the yard: Yellow jessamine (the state flower), oakleaf hydrangea, and wax myrtles are all native to this region and thrive in S.C. climate patterns and soil conditions, which reduces their need for fertilizing and watering. Including such native plants in the garden or yard adds low-maintenance beauty and curb appeal.

4. Save money by using rain barrel water: Rain barrels collect rainwater from roofs and store it to be used for watering plants. By using rain barrel water, plants are hydrated by natural, untreated water, which can result in a lower water bill. It is important to remember to use rain barrel water regularly; to elevate the barrel, thus allowing gravity to push water out the spigot; and to cover all openings with a fine mesh to prevent mosquitos from breeding.

5. Ward off pests with integrated pest management: Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach that focuses on the use of chemicals for pest control only as a last resort. IPM practices can incorporate plants that attract beneficial insects and structural barriers, like nets and screens. It is also important to select the right plants, optimal location and the correct season cycle to avoid pest problems. When well executed, IPM can reduce the need for pesticides in a garden or yard.

The summer growing season is here, and fabulous, more sustainable green gardens are ready to be revealed with just a few helpful steps that can make all the difference.

For more information on green gardens, contact Chenille Williams at 803-576-2491 or [email protected]. Also visit RichlandCountySC.gov.