Going Green in the Garden

Going green in the garden can be a lot easier than it sounds, regardless of how green your thumb is or if you are going to be starting your garden from scratch or using nurseries.  Obviously, the easiest and surest way to make sure that your garden is entirely green is to begin growing your garden and doing all the maintenance yourself, from scratch. This is not always possible though, and luckily there are several nurseries, manufacturers and stores that are developing and supporting green practices that they pass on to consumers. Here are several things to look for when shopping for plants and products for your garden and when beginning the garden yourself.

To start, seek out plant nursery that practices green principles to grow its own plants, and in the products it sells. Beginning plants by seed in your own home is the best option, because then you can regulate everything that goes into your soil, otherwise check the labels and purchase only seedlings that have been grown organically.  Use biodegradable planters to start seeds, or purchase starter plants that come in containers that will break down easily as well. Once you have planted your garden, do so in a way that will allow it to take full advantage of the sun, water conservation and the natural setting. Gardening in this way is not only green, but it will ensure that your garden will prosper with the least amount of work or money on your part.

Continuing to care for your garden is the hardest obstacle when you want to keep everything green because most products for insects and weeds involve a lot of chemicals.  Instead of using pesticides and herbicides, practice organic methods such as green cleansers and weedkillers that can be made from basic household products that are natural.  Also, co-planting and using cover crops, and using plants that deter bugs helps stop problems right in their tracks.