Green Gardening Tips
by Jolene Ottosen for the Chaparral
Green Thumbs
Keeping your garden green isn’t just about
the colour. While gardening is often seen as the ultimate environmentally
friendly activity, the way we garden can sometimes be less green than we think.
One of the most talked-about topics in
gardening today is the use of chemicals. I won’t take sides in the organic vs.
chemical debate—it’s not as black and white as some would suggest. Each
gardener needs to weigh the costs and benefits and decide what they’re
comfortable with.
A particularly contentious issue is the use
of pesticides. While some bugs can be harmful to our plants, others are
beneficial, and pesticides don’t distinguish between them. Instead of reaching
for chemical sprays at the first sign of infestation, try a more natural
approach. For example, ants dislike water, so keeping your garden well-watered
can help keep them away. My father recommends diatomaceous earth for slugs and
other pests, but I’m not a fan — it also harms earthworms, which are your
soil’s best friend. Instead, I’ve started planting slug-attracting crops like
potatoes in containers. Many gardeners also suggest using copper barriers.
Mild aphid infestations can often be
managed with a blast of water or a mix of mild detergent and water. If aphids
persist, consider introducing beneficial insects. Many garden centres stock
them, or you can have them shipped. Just be sure to research whether the
insects are suitable for your area and not invasive.
We all want a lush, green lawn — but the
key to achieving that lies in what we feed it. Commercial fertilizers work
quickly, but synthetic nitrogen provides only a short-term fix and can create
long-term dependency. Think of it like sugar: quick energy, but no staying
power. Natural sources of nitrogen, like compost, kelp, or manure, act like
complex carbs — slow-releasing, they promote deeper root growth and healthier
soil. These can be applied as a top dressing or in the form of compost tea.
Be cautious with manure. If the animal
consumed herbicides, the chemicals can pass into the manure and harm your
plants — I learned this the hard way. Only use manure from a trusted source, or
consider avoiding it altogether. Grass clippings are another great natural
fertilizer, especially when mulched while mowing.
Water is increasingly precious, so smart
watering is key. The City of Calgary recommends giving lawns about one inch of
water per week. Place something like a Frisbee on the lawn to measure. Water
early in the morning to reduce evaporation, and water less often but for longer
periods to encourage deeper root growth. Keep grass no shorter than three
inches to help shade the roots and retain moisture.
For gardens, hand-watering with a hose or
watering can is the most efficient. Again, longer, less frequent watering is
best. Mulching the soil surface helps prevent moisture loss, and adding organic
matter improves water retention. While some use peat moss for this, it’s
controversial — harvesting it releases stored carbon from peat bogs. Compost or
coir (coconut fibre) are more environmentally friendly alternatives.
Rain barrels are a great investment for
water conservation. The City sells basic models for about $80 to $90, and you
can connect several together. Garden supply centres also offer more decorative
options. If you buy a barrel with a faucet, be sure to get a stand so it’s
elevated and easier to access. The higher the barrel, the more water pressure
you’ll have — especially important if using a hose. Note: rainwater collected
from rooftops is not recommended for edible plants unless a first flush system
is installed to improve water quality.
Another smart strategy is to plant native
species. Our prairie climate is hot and dry, but native plants are adapted to
thrive with what nature provides. Several nurseries in Calgary specialize in
native species and can help you choose what’s best for your garden.
Lastly, to enjoy your green space even
more, consider installing solar lights so you can appreciate your yard at any
time of day — or night.
If you are interested in joining us in the
garden next season, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at
[email protected].
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