Nitrogen Fixing Plants in My Garden

Nitrogen fixing plants play important roles in a permaculture garden. Certain plants form symbiotic relationships with beneficial bacteria in their roots. These plants help to maintain a natural balance in your garden. For a green and eco-friendly garden, synthetic nitrogen fertilisers are never the answer. Nitrogen fixing plants are an important part of organic gardeningContinue reading “Nitrogen Fixing Plants in My Garden”

Reducing Plastic Use in the Garden

First of all, let me begin by saying that I take a practical approach to reducing plastic use. I am of course fully aware of the problems with plastic. But I also know that it can be a very useful material. I do have plastic in my garden – most notably, my polytunnel. (Around fiveContinue reading “Reducing Plastic Use in the Garden”

Planning and Sowing for Year Round Growing

One of the mistakes that people make when starting to grow their own is thinking too short term. Many enthusiastic new gardeners will sow plenty of seeds in spring – then lose that momentum when it comes to the summer months. But planning for year round growing means continuing to think about what we sowContinue reading “Planning and Sowing for Year Round Growing”

Planting for Pollinators

Pollinators are so important. But many key species that we rely on to pollinate our crops are in threat. The more we can do to protect pollinators, the better. Bees, butterflies, other insects and a wide range of other wildlife is required for healthy, strong, resilient ecosystems. The best thing we can do for pollinatorsContinue reading “Planting for Pollinators”

Fertilize Plants Organically For Free

In any organic garden, it is important to take steps to ensure the fertility of the soil and the health of the plants over time. You can fertilize plants organically for free by using readily available natural materials from your garden.  Slow release fertilizers are added in a ‘no dig’ garden in the form ofContinue reading “Fertilize Plants Organically For Free”

Attracting Wildlife in Your Garden

Many of us are turning our attentions to our gardens right now. But many new gardeners forget that they are not gardening alone. As organic gardeners, we are aided in what we do by many creatures that share our space. Attracting wildlife, and making a wildlife friendly garden is one of the top things weContinue reading “Attracting Wildlife in Your Garden”

The Benefits of Forest Gardening

Forest gardening is one of my specialities. I have turned a mature garden on my own property into a forest garden, and design forest gardens for others around the world. Many people are starting new gardens right now. When most people get started, they tend to focus on creating a traditional vegetable patch or kitchenContinue reading “The Benefits of Forest Gardening”