Winter Guide to Sustainable Gardening

Even in the cold of winter, sustainable gardeners are busy planning and plotting for spring. So what is sustainable gardening? It’s not really a technical term in gardening, but more of a practice based on the concept that our home landscapes are part of a larger ecosystem and so we should be mindful not to harm the environment when enhancing our own space.

Composting in the winter will provide essential nutrients to the soil when you plant in the spring. Collect plant-based kitchen scraps, leaves and other garden waste for compost and introduce this to your garden to reduce the need for other fertilizers.

Mulching with about two inches of wood or bark chips will reduce weeds and help our plant roots stay cool in warmer weather.

A gravel edge slows the water intake into the soil, even snow will eventually melt and too much moisture at one time is not good.

Leave the leaves in the fall. Rotting leaves provide natural food for your garden while also providing shelter for caterpillars, spiders, toads and other beneficial garden residents.

Avoid using salt on driveways during the winter. Instead, opt for pet- and plant-friendly alternatives

Avoid pesticides. It is healthier to live with minor insect damage when possible.

Finally, promote wildlife habitat and species diversity by planting trees, shrubs and perennials that provide food or shelter for insects, birds and other wildlife. Conversely, we should avoid planting invasive species.

Written by Lauren Payne. Full article appears in February 2021 New Jersey Monthly.