We all know the saying: reduce, reuse, recycle!

Well, this applies to the garden, too. You can create a relaxing garden oasis while also helping to protect our environment and its resources.

The goal of an environmentally friendly garden is to reduce energy and water use, attract beneficial insects and wildlife, minimize waste, reuse materials and supplies, and create a more self-sustainable ecosystem.

It’s fitting that Earth day is just around the corner, here are some simple ways to get started!

Tip Number 1: SAVE THE WATER 

Watering smartly is the name of the game! Aim to do your watering in the morning or coolest part of the day. At this time, less water will be lost to evaporation.

Another option is to use an easy-to-install drip irrigation system, allowing water to drip slowly and directly to the roots of your plants.

Also, when hand-watering, be sure to use a watering device with a shut off to conserve water when walking between plants.

You might also consider collecting water with a rain barrel. This holds water captured from your roof for later use and reduces the runoff from your property. Think of it as free water for your garden!

Tip Number 2: BRING ON THE BENEFICIAL INSECTS 

There are many bugs that are beneficial creatures to have roaming in your garden! They prey on the pesky bad bugs and create an overall healthier ecosystem.

Ladybugs and praying mantis are a great example. They’ll eat up all those aphids, mealy bugs, leafhoppers and more!

The more they eat, the more ladybugs breed, replacing damaging insects with beneficial ones to continue defending your garden.

You can also use nematodes in concealed environments, such as root zones, bark cracks, and crowns of plants. These guys attack more than 230 kinds of soil-dwelling and wood-boring pests!

Tip Number 3: WELCOME THE POLLINATORS

Pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds are essential to our ecosystem, and provide vital natural resources.

Providing them with a comfortable place to call home will help them do their job more efficiently and effectively.

Fill your garden with nectar and pollen-rich plants and remember to provide a source of shelter, food and water for these pollinators.

When protecting your plants from insects and disease, organic products are best, but any method used incorrectly will harm pollinators, especially bees.

Only apply as needed, and do not use products on open blooms. Be sure to always follow manufacturer’s directions. When in doubt, ask the experts at English Gardens for advice!

Tip Number 4: GIVE SOLAR A GO 

Solar lights are all the rage and a simple way to create an eco-friendly garden.

Outdoor solar lights convert sunlight into electricity and store it to be used later in the evening.

Try solar lights on pathways, lampposts, deck lighting, solar globes and more.

There’s a wide variety of shapes, styles, sizes and colors that will add an energy-efficient and decorative element to your space.

Tip Number 5: CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR THE RIGHT PLACE

Consider all aspects of your garden – moisture, sunlight, drainage and soil quality – when deciding what to plant where. This will help promote a longer plant life-cycle, saving you time and resources.

Plants that are more comfortable and adjusted to their environment will thrive.

Tip Number 6: TRY ORGANIC GARDENING

This is a simple and important eco-friendly gardening tactic.

Organic gardening does not utilize chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

English Gardens has a wide selection of organic fertilizers, pesticides and weed killers that work great and are safe for you and the environment.

Tip Number 7: GROW YOUR OWN FOOD 

Have fun, save money on groceries and reduce your monthly food bill by growing your own fresh fruits, herbs and veggies from seeds or starter plants.

Good sun, soft soil, and a stable environment will help your seeds and plants thrive.

Don’t forget to review the spacing guides and ideal planting time on your seed packets or plant tags.

Stop into any English Gardens store today to welcome the Spring season and get started on all your gardening projects.

Watch our video for more tips.