Top 10 Sustainable Garden Tips

Whatever the size of your garden there is much you can do to save energy, conserve water, encourage wildlife and biodiversity.

When we plan a garden in Spain we like to create spaces for the different moods of the day: dappled shade, scents at night, spaces in full sunlight or for cooking and sharing a meal.

Here are ten at a glance tips for caring for your garden and the wildlife that lives in it and the wider environment.
1. Plan a new garden to scale before you buy anything.
2. Use the garden to help conserve heat and reduce overheating from the house.
3. Choose sustainable and preferably local or recycled / reclaimed materials.
4. Look after your top soil during building works.
5. Avoid using chemicals, use natural controls instead.
6. Plant for your local climate conditions and soil type.
7. Take every opportunity to save water and use it wisely.
8. Mulch
9. Encourage bio diversity with your planting choices.
10. Start a compost heap.

Author: John Wolfendale

Bio: John is a founder of Eco Vida and is passionate about bringing modern design and construction practices to Spain. He believes a home which is warm in winter and cool in summer is largely a matter of design and selective use of materials. He is British and a Chartered Surveyor with 20 years experience living and working in Spain.