Eco-friendly garden improvements

As spring approaches, it’s time to step outside. And with sustainability more important than ever, add eco-friendly improvements to your garden

Install decking

Decking is really versatile and can be used as a spot for socialising, dining or relaxing.  When choosing your decking, it’s good to pick a sustainable option. Composite decking is not only durable and low-maintenance, but it is a eco alternative to traditional timber. It also adds personality to your garden and guests will love it!

Remember – when choosing traditional or composite decking, always check for the FSC or PEFC logo to ensure the timber comes from a certified, sustainable source.

Choose bamboo

Bamboo looks great in the garden. It can be used for decoration, fencing, building birdhouses and supporting plants. It’s a sustainable option because it grows quickly, meaning it can be harvested often without harming the environment.

Repurpose old or unwanted pieces

If you have old bits around the house that you no longer use, you might be able to incorporate them into the garden. For example, use an old paint can as a plant pot (as long as you clean it properly first). Creative use of old pallets, pots and pans, utensils and crockery can all be repurposed with a little imagination.

Grow your own food

Planting vegetables such carrots, cucumbers and tomatoes is so much fun. There’s nothing better than eating something you put hard work into growing. It also helps to minimise your carbon footprint that comes from transporting and packaging shop-bought vegetables. If you don’t have much room in your garden, grow cress, salad leaves and herbs on a balcony or windowsill.

Use hedges instead of fences

Having wildlife in your garden makes it feel more magical, and hedges can help do just this. They provide a habitat for birds, butterflies and hedgehogs, also giving them a hiding place from predators. Hedges help with clean air and because of their strong structure with roots going deep beneath the soil, they soak up plenty of water which helps prevent flooding.

Try a water feature

Having a water feature like a pond or fountain can attract wildlife, from frogs to birds and bees. Including native plants in your pond is a good idea too, as they can act as a food source for water species that depend on it. Try collecting rainwater to fill birdbaths and to water your plants – you may be able to lower your water bill.

Grow flowers

Bees are at risk of extinction, but you can help by planting flowers in your garden. They love flowers like foxglove, lavender, sunflowers and honeysuckle. Having flowers also improves soil health, provides food for birds and brings enchanting fragrance to your outdoor space.

Get composting

Compost can be made using garden prunings like branches or leaves, and waste from your kitchen, such as vegetable peels. Over a period of time, using a compost bin will create a rich, nutritious soil which is perfect for growing healthy plants.