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Gardening is the number-one leisure activity in Canada, and the plants we grow improve the quality of the air we breathe and brighten the lives we lead. Think of the difference we can make if we all go a little greener and work together to reduce global warming.
Compost, Compost Everywhere
There is no better bargain! The composted leaves of one large shade tree can be worth as much as $50 of plant fertilizer and humus, with twice the minerals of manure. Committing to composting reduces household garbage by 30 per cent and yields a chemical-free, nutrient-rich dressing for lawns, gardens and houseplants.
Mulch Appreciated
A layer of chopped leaves, lawn clippings, straw or other mulch will reduce weeds, cool the soil and retain moisture. Maximize the benefits of a mulch layer by keeping it to 5 to 10cm (2 to 4 in.) and leave at least 30cm (1 ft.) between mulch and tree trunks. Leaving your grass clippings to break down on your lawn will contribute 55 kg (120 lbs.) of both nitrogen and potassium and 17 kg (37 lbs.) of phosphate in just one growing season.
Tree Spree
Plant more trees! A single tree will absorb a ton of carbon dioxide over its lifetime while adding oxygen, sheltering birds and securing soil from erosion. Evergreens on the north and west sides of the house shield it from winter’s onslaught, while deciduous trees south and east offer shade from summer sun. The tireless tree can transpire more than 360 L (80 gal.) of water per day and do the work of five air conditioners running 20 hours a day.
Water Tight
Canadians are among the highest per-capita users of water in our world and this excess increases by half again during the summer months, due mostly to watering our gardens. This year will see my family directing downspouts into rain barrels, setting up more soaker hoses and planting a drought-tolerant garden (see page 38). Our infrequent waterings will be thorough and in the early-morning hours, minimizing evaporation and encouraging plants to root down deep. In the vegetable patch, we will be propping up an old sink for rinsing our pickings, with the water being directed into the thirsty earth below.
Edibles Everywhere
An asparagus hedge, pots of perennial herbs and a row of espaliered fruit trees have been among my favourite garden “ornamentals.” These incredible edibles are there for the taking at mealtime and reduce the need to run to the store. When a typical North American meal travels almost 2,000km (1,250m) from farm to table and it is often a struggle to find local produce, even growing a few beans and a container or two of carrots can make a difference.
Go Wild
Growing native plants will help to sustain and shelter local wildlife. Add pools of water and boggy spots to support local avian and amphibian populations.
Grow Organic
Eliminate the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers derived from fossil fuels, and boost the health of your soil and your family. Choose plants to attract beneficial insects and birds, and put the right plant in the right place.
Power Down
Opting for a push mower and manual garden tools will reduce emissions and increase your physical fitness. An electric mower is a better bet than gas-powered, and less lawn will help too.
Pot Around
Remember the 3 Rs when it comes to plastic pots. When you have more than you can use, pass them along or seek out a recycle depot that will accept them. And think outside the petroleum-based plastic pot. Plant up old shoes, wooden crates, rusty metal buckets and any other household item that will add charm to your patio or landscape.
Child Centred
Agrarian advocate and author Wendell Berry says it best: “Teaching children about the natural world should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives.” Growing food crops and starting seeds are miracles to share with our young. Giving children their own garden will connect them to the earth and teach them to treasure the nature that surrounds them.
Carol Pope is the editor for GardenWise magazine. Carol lives in Garden Bay, Pender Harbour. She is the mother of three children whom she has promised to save the future for.
