I absolutely love spending time out in the yard doing gardening and just enjoying nature. I have some super simple ways to be more eco friendly in your yard, for minimal cost.

1. Plant Natives

You may hear people say that their plants keep dying? This is probably true and if you were to dig a little deeper you would find that they are probably not native plants. By planting native plants in your garden, they are not only built for the Australian weather conditions, but they also provide native birds and wildlife with sustenance. They are super easy to keep alive and make your garden look gorgeous.

2. Mulch

By using mulch you increase your soil’s fertility, keeping it strong for your plants to get the required nutrients out of it. You can use any type of mulch from compost, bark, grass clippings, shredded leaves or straw. The great thing about mulch is that retains moisture in the soil and suppresses weeds. Who doesn’t love something that keeps away weeds? Mulch also keeps the soil cool, which means your plants stay happier.

3. Compost

If your yard is not big enough for compost, then you need a worm farm. You can pick one up relatively cheap at a garden store. This is one way to get rid of all your food scraps and have them changed into mulch for your garden. It is a great eco initiative for your home.

4. Harvest Rainwater

Instead of using town water for your garden, harvest rainwater with your own tanks. Not only will it save you money but you will be able to water your beautiful garden using just the rainwater. Harvesting your rainwater also means you will not be so reliant on the town water and can enjoy water usage through drought if you have your own ready to use.

5. Use Natural Pest Control

By using natural pest control you can rest easy that animals, children, yourself and really just anyone will not have to worry about being poisoned. You can naturally deter pests by using plants that in most cases smell absolutely delicious to humans.

6. Plant fruits and veggies

Rather than constantly planting flowers and non-edible plants, how about adding some native plants that will provide you with a harvest? Then instead of a garden that is just “pretty”, it will have a second job, of providing your household with food. Check out some great native options here.