Gardening 101: How do I become a no impact gardener?

Examiner
Jaipi Sixbear
Friday, September 4, 2009

Not all gardeners are no impact gardeners. Organic gardeners do their best to leave a positive impact on the environment. There are many ways of working toward leaving no impact. Here are just a few green gardening suggestions. Try to think of your own ways to leave no impact in the garden as well.

Natural pesticides
Organic gardeners are sure to use nature friendly pesticides that leave no impact on our water supply. This step will also protect beneficial insects such as honey bees and lady bugs.

Barrier pest control
Another good organic gardening technique that leaves no impact on the environment is the use of barriers to protect plants from pests. The barrier method keeps birds and small animals from eating garden produce without causing them harm.

Compost
Using homemade compost as fertilizer keeps harmful chemicals out of the soil. Many commercial fertilizers contain chemicals which leach into the soil and water supply. Leave no impact by making your own compost fertilizer from trimmings, leaves and kitchen scraps.

Reduce waste
All the kitchen vegetable scraps, leaves, twigs and clipping are used for compost. This means a reduction in the household waste and a further step toward a no impact lifestyle. Making your own compost can be quite simple.

Donate food
No impact organic gardeners don’t waste food. Garden surplus is sold or given to friends, neighbors and relatives. Local food banks gladly accept any unwanted garden produce. Think about canning and freezing garden produce as well. Cut down on the grocery bill and consume less goods.

Recycle pots
Greenhouses will accept plastic disposable pots for re-use. Another option for no impact organic gardening is to use them yourself. Even broken clay pots can be used again. Just put the broken pieces in the bottom of pots in place of gravel for drainage.

Recycle soil
Don’t throw away potting soil at the end of the year. Mix it with fertilizer or throw it into the compost pile for further use. No impact organic gardening means using everything to its fullest potential.

Save seeds
Organic gardeners don’t buy seeds every year. Work toward a no impact garden by saving plant seeds from this years vegetable, herb and flower crops. The seeds can be used by you next year or shared with other gardening friends.

Hand tools
Hand tools leave no impact on the environment. They don’t necessitate fuel purchases or energy use. Save money by using hand tools as a no impact gardening method. It’s also a great way to get a little gardening workout and reap health benefits too.

Removing Garden pests The Organic Way

As with all things in nature, there is a balance. Organic garden pest control doesn’t upset that sensitive arrangement too much. Even if we practice organic gardening, pest control is necessary. Garden pests love the convenience of their favorite foods all being in the same place! Read more