how we define "ecological gardening"

We define ecological gardens in two ways:

1. the elements in the landscape 

2. the manner of garden care practiced in the landscape 

There are specific elements in the landscape that support native plants, wildlife, and encourage biodiversity. There are also specific ways of tending to the landscape that encourage plant, animal, and soil life to thrive naturally. We carry the unique weight of balancing the rewilding of spaces while also maintaining functionality for daily life, structure, and aesthetic appeal. 

elements of an ecological garden

Let’s take a look at the elements that create an ecological garden

1. Native plants. We strive to incorporate native plants into every landscape we design and tend. This way we allow for the regeneration of these plants in their local habitat. These plants are also low maintenance for homeowners because they are already well adapted to the climate.

2. Edible plants and pollinator flowers. Adding in these types of plants provide nourishment and sustenance for you and the natural wildlife. Pollinators are an essential part of our ecosystem and by planting flowers and edible plants you give vital nourishment and support to these creatures. 

3. Shrubs and hedgerows. These provide habitat for birds and nesting animals. They also provide cover and screening for your home environment, while also cleaning the air by filtering pollutants found in urban settings.

4. Water source. Having a water source will surely bring wildlife to your garden. All living beings need water to survive and having a water feature like a water bowl, fountain, or pond give these creatures respite. The natural calming sound of water is also beneficial for human health and creates a sense of peace and sanctuary.

5. Succession planting / four season landscapes. Planning a landscape that has flowers, fruit, and foliage throughout each season provides wildlife with food and energy it needs to get through each season. It also gives visual interest, beauty, and screening for your private sanctuary throughout the year. 

6. Bird Boxes. Creating nesting sites for birds and especially birds of prey is supportive to the natural environment and to your garden. These spaces provide habitat for birds to raise their young. Owls and hawks specifically help keep down the population of unwanted rodents (like gophers) in your garden.

7. Places for sitting and reflection. Human health is also ecological. Having places to sit, relax, and reflect is an important element of the ecological garden. Connection with nature brings immense health benefits to humans and having a peaceful space adds serenity to your home garden.

practices in an ecological garden

Now that we have discussed the elements of an ecological garden we would like to share with you car practices that we define as ecological

1. Leaving leaves. Instead of picking up all leaves we strategically leave some of the leaves in beds and planting areas to allow them to be broken down into mulch and provide shelter for beneficial insects. The leaves also protect the soil, increase water retention, and suppress weeds. 

2. Waiting to deadhead. We wait until the bees and other pollinators have finished getting nutrients from the flowers and then we leave some of the flowers to go to seed to either allow a native plant to spread and/or to provide food for birds and other wildlife.

3. Using only natural and organic treatments for pests or diseased plants. We know how harmful many pest and disease products are out there on the market. We steer clear of ones known to be harmful to people, plants, pollinators, and animals. We utilize natural and organic methods only and are currently using bacteria based and plant based sprays when necessary.

4. Adding in organic matter (like compost and mulch) to create healthier soil and plants. Healthy plants start with the soil! Adding in organic matter helps to create a rich and biodiverse soil for plants to grow in. Mulch helps to protect the soil, increase water retention and suppress weeds - yes, leaves are a natural mulch!

5. Conscious and mindful tending. We take special care in the gardens we work in to be aware not to harm plants and wildlife while working in the garden. We take care to nurture habitats and be aware of our surroundings.