Studies suggest that around 80% of people want to live more sustainably. Many of us are implementing strategies to make our homes more eco-friendly, but have you thought about what you can do to be a greener gardener? If you love gardening, or you’re keen to expand your eco-conscious efforts to cover your outdoor space as well as your home, here are some easy steps to take today. 

Look for environmentally friendly technology and tools

Technology plays an increasingly influential role in all our lives. Many of us now use smart tools and innovative tech to power our homes, save time, simplify maintenance tasks and adjust settings, such as the indoor temperature. As technology advances, gardeners have access to a dazzling range of technology and gadgets that enhance the enjoyment of gardening and save time and energy. If you’re looking to buy new machinery or tools for your yard, it’s a great idea to focus on environmentally friendly options. Examples range from a zero-emissions lawn mower to smart irrigation systems. Research new trends and developments and look for gadgets, systems or tools that will benefit you. If you only have a compact yard, for example, you won’t need a powerful lawn mower with all the bells and whistles. If you’ve got a large garden with a huge lawn, however, this may be an ideal investment for you. 

Reduce energy consumption outdoors

One of the most effective ways to embrace greener gardening is to reduce your energy consumption outdoors. We often think about the appliances and systems we use indoors when talking about energy usage, but you may be using a lot more energy than you think outside. If you have an irrigation system, pond or water feature, or you use outdoor lighting, for example, it can soon add up. Lowering energy consumption will not only reduce your carbon footprint but it will also save you money. Simple actions like swapping traditional bulbs for energy-saving lights can make a big difference. Solar-powered lighting is a brilliant addition to gardens that receive a lot of light. You could also install a smart outdoor lighting system or sensors to lower usage during times when you don’t need extra light, for example, on a bright day when it stays lighter for longer. 

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Choose sustainable materials

Shopping sustainably is easier than ever thanks to improved brand awareness of environmental issues and the increased availability of green products. When you’re sprucing up your garden, purchasing accessories or buying materials to build outdoor structures, for example, look for sustainable options. Buy from brands and retailers that champion environmental initiatives and opt for recycled or reused materials or materials from sustainable sources where possible. You can often find out more about sustainability efforts via company websites and social media feeds. 

Reduce waste

Studies show that the average person produces around 0.74 kg of waste per day. Reducing waste is a means of decreasing the amount of waste that ends up in landfill and making the most of the products and materials we grow, use and buy. There are many ways to reduce waste in your garden, including using waste to create compost for your plants, reducing energy consumption and recycling items you don’t use or need anymore. Look for ways to reuse products and materials. If you’re creating a new raised flower bed, for example, why not look on second-hand auction sites or visit timber yards and buy reclaimed wood?

Support native wildlife

Our gardens provide an oasis for us, but they also offer a sanctuary for local wildlife. As development increases, more and more species are losing their natural habitats. If you’re a keen gardener and an animal lover, you can do your bit to protect native species and offer respite for them. Easy ways to support local wildlife include adding a diverse range of plants to encourage pollinators to visit, leaving food out for birds, providing fresh, clean water and letting parts of your garden grow wild. Wild areas offer an authentic home for wildlife, which mimics their natural surroundings. Mowing your lawn less and letting wildflowers grow can also lower energy consumption and encourage a wider range of pollinators to pay your garden a visit. 

Planting trees helps to attract wildlife and it can also improve air quality. If you don’t have a huge yard, don’t worry. There are many types of plants and trees you add to smaller spaces to entice more creatures, including dogwood, hawthorn and dog rose. 

Cut out chemicals

Many gardeners use chemicals to nourish plants or keep unwanted intruders, such as slugs and aphids, away. Products made from chemicals may be effective, but they can impact the environment negatively. It’s beneficial to reduce the use of chemicals and look for natural, more eco-friendly alternatives. You can buy everything from green plant protection sprays to organic soil conditioners. If you’re unsure which products to buy, research different brands and product ranges, look for reviews and recommendations online and get inspiration from TV shows and gardening magazines that focus on environmentally friendly horticulture and garden design. 

Grow your own fruit and vegetables

Growing your own produce has become more popular. If you grow your own fruit and vegetables, you reduce your reliance on imported goods and you can save money while creating a more productive and vibrant garden. Another key benefit of growing produce at home is reducing waste. Studies show that people who harvest home-grown fruit and vegetables generate 95% less organic food waste than those who buy all their fruit and vegetables from stores. The easiest options for beginners include bell peppers, tomatoes, blackberries, raspberries, cabbage and strawberries. 

The majority of people want to embrace a greener lifestyle. Many of us are now implementing eco-friendly measures at home, but what can you do in your garden to protect the environment? There are many ways to be a more eco-friendly gardener. Examples include utilizing greener technologies and tools in the garden, reducing waste, recycling and lowering energy consumption. Growing your own produce, reducing chemical usage, buying organic and sustainable products and materials and creating a haven for local wildlife can also make a big difference. 

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