To coin a phrase ‘Sustainable Gardening is for Life not just a passing fancy’. It is easy to drop sustainable gardening when it gets tough but here are a few tips to help you stay the distance.

Composting

• Good compost contains huge, free food resources and conserves moisture in the soil. You know you could do more.
• Save money on fertilizer by adding Comfrey leaves to compost bins to boost nitrogen content.
• Do not put animal and fish bones on the compost heap but you can crush and bury these bones.
• Wormeries and worm bins will eat food waste and produce good soil conditioner.

Water Conservation

• It is more popular to save water when the drought starts but the wise gardener has already got solutions in place. But me more  Butts.
• Harvest water, it saves money if you are on a meter, even grey water is of use.
• Use drought tolerant plants such as Alpines and Mediterranean plants.

Recycle, Repurpose and Reuse

• Pruned stems can be used as plant supports and cut logs can go in a wood pile.
• Various bits of packaging can be used as planters.
• Reuse plant pots or donate them to charities who sell plants and are always asking me for contributions.
• Stones from a rocky part of the garden can improve drainage in another or be used to create a soak-away.

Encourage Wildlife

• Log Piles and brash piles save landfill and help insects and fungi.
• Companion planting can attract particular pest predators.
• Wild life encourages a natural balance in your garden.
• Leave areas of lawn unmown or create natural garden areas.

Green roofs are sustainable food, water and heat resources, read about Harlow Carr