Wisconsin State Journal
Growing your own is about as green as it gets, right? On one level, yes. But being an environmentally responsible gardener this coming spring may mean changing your gardening practices.
Using toxic chemicals is out, obviously. Here are a few more hints:
• If you live in a dry area, try to choose drought-tolerant plants and flowers to cut down on water use. In wetter areas, install a rain barrel that can help conserve precious water and feed your greenery.
• Keep away the creatures with organic repellents using natural oils and odors.
• Buy plants grown locally instead of paying for plants shipped to your area. Many community gardening groups host spring plant sales.
• Substitute locally made compost for peat, soils and manure shipped from as far away as Canada.
• Need to light your garden path at night? Go for solar lighting that absorbs energy all day for illumination all night.
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