5 Ways to Be an Eco-Friendly Gardener

An eco-friendly garden is all about planning with nature and the environment in mind. For gardeners, this mindfulness pays off in multiple ways. Eco-friendly gardens save time, money and the environment by creating a sustainable habitat for wildlife, promoting clean water and preventing invasive species from taking over the landscape. Here's more about what you can do to make a difference.

Harvest Rainwater

A rain barrel is a smart way to capture soft water that can be used to water the lawn and garden. Not only will you enjoy a reduced water bill, you can also cut down on storm-water runoff which causes erosion and flooding. Your rain barrel can be easily concealed behind the garden shed or the rear of your home.

Choose Native Plants

Incorporate native species in your garden. These plants are already well-adapted to your local growing conditions, meaning they need less water and fertilizer to thrive. Native plants also attract and support a variety of native birds, pollinating insects and other wildlife.

Limit the Use of Lawn Fertilizers, Herbicides & Insecticides

Get a reliable soil test every few years to monitor whether your lawn needs nutrients. Raise the height of your mower to 3-4 inches to reduce your need for herbicides; higher grass makes it harder for weeds to take hold. Leave grass clippings on the lawn after mowing so nutrients can return to the soil. If you have a small number of weeds, consider removing them by hand rather than using herbicide.

Attract Bug-Eating Birds

Common backyard birds such as bluebirds, cardinals, chickadees and swallows provide natural pest control for aphids, grasshoppers, cucumber beetles, grubs and many other garden pests. Make your yard and garden bird-friendly by planting shrubs and small trees for cover. Add a source of water - ideally moving water such as a small fountain - and keep at least one feeder stocked with quality bird seed.

Set Up a Compost Bin

Kitchen scraps, shredded leaves and garden waste can be put to great use in the garden as compost. Learn how to build a compost bin. Fall is an ideal time to add compost to the soil. As it breaks down over the winter, it will improve the soil and help your plants become more productive next spring.

Get Innovative Storage for Your Backyard

LP^® Outdoor Building Solutions^® offers a unique collection of engineered wood building products designed specifically for use in outdoor structures. Whether you need a garden shed, a storage shed for the lawn mower, or any other storage building, our products will make your structure a cut above the rest. Your nearest shed dealer can answer any questions you may have about buying or building a shed constructed from LP shed products.