If you want to grow a healthy garden that is environmentally friendly, it’s important to learn some eco gardening tips. These include composting, creating a compost pile, using water-wise plants and reducing pesticides and weedkillers. Also, planting drought-resistant plants is a great way to minimize the use of chemicals.

Reduce pesticides and weedkillers

If you are planning to apply weedkillers and pesticides to your yard, you want to do your homework. You should use products that are safe to the environment and to your family and pets.

The best way to determine if a product is safe for you is to read the label. The label should contain the ingredients and instructions for use. Use the instructions to determine if the product can be used safely on your yard.

Many herbicides and pesticides can be harmful to plants. However, there are some products that are effective against some weeds. This can make it easier to keep your lawn looking good.

Another reason to use a pesticide is to kill insects. Insects are the culprits behind many garden pests. By controlling them, you may be able to keep your garden free of aphids, worms and other pests.

Aside from insecticides, there are fungicides and herbicides that are effective against a number of fungal diseases. Some are preventative treatments while others are used to control an existing infection.

Plant drought-resistant plants

Using drought-tolerant plants is an eco-friendly way to create a landscape that looks lush during dry months. It also conserves water and helps reduce water bills. However, these plants will require some care and attention to keep them flourishing.

Among the many drought-tolerant plants are succulents. These plants are known for their ability to hold moisture within their leaves. They can handle long periods of drought without any problem.

Agave is a succulent that can be grown as a stand-alone feature. Its long tap roots can reach deep into the soil to obtain moisture. This plant is best planted in sunny, well-draining areas.

Another plant that is known for its drought tolerance is the hen and chicks. These flowers will bloom in the spring and fall and can provide color to your garden. The small plants are hardy in zones 9-12.

Jerusalem sage is an evergreen shrub that grows well in containers with good drainage. You can prune it annually in late spring or early summer.

Create a compost heap

A compost pile is a great way to repurpose your kitchen scraps into something you can use in your garden. Compost is an organic material that provides nutrients to plants’ roots. There are several steps to build a compost pile.

The first step is to mix your materials properly. The proper mix can speed up the composting process. Some of the best ingredients to include in your compost are dried fruit, leaves, vegetable peelings, manure, shredded newspaper, and coffee grounds.

The second step is to build a pile. A compost pile should be at least four feet tall and three feet wide. If you have a larger area, you can build a larger pile.

After you have mixed your materials, cover your compost heap with something that will allow air to circulate. This can be shade cloth or old carpet.

Turn your pile on a regular basis. This will aerate your compost and speed up the breakdown of your material.

Attract wildlife

The best way to attract wildlife into your garden is to provide them with the necessities they need to survive. These include food, water, and shelter.

A backyard pond or other sized container is a great way to attract a wide variety of wildlife. This can also be a place where you can create a habitat for beneficial insects.

Other options include birdbaths, natural food sources, and nest boxes. Birds, bats, and other animals are essential to the ecosystem. They are able to clean up night-flying insects, providing a safe haven for your neighborhood.

In addition, plants are one of the main resources of food for many species. Flowers produce nectar, which is a favorite food for many animals. Another good source of food is seeds.

Plants that produce fruit are also a great source of food for wildlife. Keeping your garden a habitat for birds will also encourage them to return.

Flowering plants, deciduous trees, and shrubs are all beneficial to animals. Tall plants offer shelter and cool shade in the summer.