Earth Gardening

SAVE THE EARTH
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

One might think that a personal effort is futile, but if all gardeners made these efforts, we could make a huge difference in the scheme of things.

Compost. From a grand scale with bins, piles, heaps, pits, tumblers or boxes to a small scale of burying coffee grounds in garden beds, compost adds nutrients, helps retain moisture, and helps heal sick soil. University studies have shown that harmful insects were more likely to attack plants grown with chemical fertilizers than with compost.

Consider alternatives to chemical pesticides and fertilizers. We've become so dependent on the use of chemicals that most of us don't seek natural methods, or even know that they exist. Consider organic alternatives to build soils rather than ravage them; seek out companion plants for fewer problems with pests and disease, and encourage natural predators rather than wiping everything out with a cloud of carcinogen. At the very least, read the labels. If you can't be completely organic, learn more about Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Encourage wildlife and try to live with it. Anticipate interaction between garden and beast; plant enough for the both of you.

Plant natives. Native plants can take a full year to become established, but will always be the survivalists of the local landscape; they have adapted to climactic conditions of the area, and are the preferred food and cover for native wildlife.

Consider the consequences of genetically modified seeds and plants. Keep an eye on it. Watch both sides of these arguments and don't let anyone decide for you.

Cut down on your personal use of water. Use mulches; rip off bags of fallen leaves and pine needles that your neighbors have destined for landfills.

Plant trees--big ones. Too may times we want instant gratification, and don't consider planting the slow growing matriarchs that provide most of our oxygen. We may not get to the see these as mature specimens; do it for our children, our grandchildren, and all of those who are presently clueless.

Recycle. Look at every piece of your refuse for any possibility of using it again. Think of containers for storing seeds, dried herbs, or making starts of flowers and veggies. Look at every piece you throw out as a possible candidate for re-use, especially those that aren't included in local recycle programs.

Save seeds and distribute them freely among your gardening friends.

Gently teach your friends, acquaintances, parents and children the respect for the earth that you have learned. The way to persuasion is not through making someone feel stupid or uninformed, but rather by gaining their trust and admiration. Tell them about your pitfalls and accomplishments, how you made a personal effort because it was important to you, and how great you feel about your garden and your health since you instigated changes. Offer your help and encouragement.