2025 has already presented challenges as recent storms and flooding have caused damage to many gardens, which is frustrating and upsetting  for any gardener. However, the arrival of a new Spring gives the opportunity to develop our garden plans and perhaps embrace some different methods which are stronger and more sustainable. It is predicted  that the climate will become increasingly variable  and, as a consequence of greenhouse gas emissions,  global warming is inevitable. Gardens play an important role in helping to mitigate against the effects of climate change, thus  if we  take care of  our Earth…the Earth will continue to take care of us.

So, what can all gardeners do?

1.    Adopt new ways of growing.  Wherever possible, plant a  tree or shrub and green up any bare patches. Trees and plants remove heat–trapping carbon dioxide , (CO2), from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the risk of flooding, and some species even capture particulate pollution. Trees and plants are nature's powerhouses in tackling climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide  (CO2)from the atmosphere, helping to reduce greenhouse gases. Additionally, they also play a significant role in mitigating flood risks by slowing down rainwater runoff, preventing soil erosion, and improving water infiltration. 

2.    Installing green roofs and walls ( a specially constructed roof or wall  that is covered with vegetation) can result in year–round home energy savings due to a cooling effect in summer and an insulating effect in winter. Green roofs provide new urban habitats for plants, birds and insects, increasing bio-diversity.

3.    Planting a diverse range of plants will help increase the number of pollen and nectar sources at different times of the year and encourage pollinators into our gardens. Also, selecting plants better suited to the environment will help prevent loses.

4.    Improving water capture  with more / larger capacity water butts will ensure sufficient water supplies over the summer and reduce tap water consumption. Rainwater is also better for your plants as it is free from salts and minerals found in tap water. This makes it easier for plants to absorb nutrients, making them stronger and more resilient. 

5.    Avoiding the  use of  chemicals in the garden, but, if absolutely necessary, using products with a low carbon footprint.

6.    Composting garden and kitchen waste as this provides excellent nutrients for the garden. Household waste that ends up on landfill ,produces potent greenhouse gases.

7.    Reducing the growth of invasive species into the wider environment, e.g. Japanese Knotweed, by ensuring correct disposal. 

8.    Adopt the 4R’s.

1. Reduce – the use of resources in your garden wherever possible.
2. Reuse –   household materials and seasonal items year on year.
3. Recycle – your garden waste, plastic, glass and metals.
4. Reinvest – buy and use recycled items.

Good news…..

A Gardeners’ World magazine survey, found 90% of gardeners listed gardening as improving their mood. Typically, as gardening gets you outside into the sunlight, this creates Vitamin D which boosts serotonin levels, which affects, amongst other things, your mood. Engaging with nature, nurturing plants, and spending time outdoors reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts overall mental health. 

Soil makes you feel good.  A bacterium found in soil ,Mycobacterium vaccae, targets immune cells  and releases chemicals, which stimulate  serotonin-releasing neurons – these are the same neurons which are activated by artificially induced chemicals  like Prozac and other antidepressants. Gardening helps overstimulated minds to focus and perform better and  tending and harvesting rituals help  slow down our busy lives. Home grown fruits and vegetables also aid improved eating habits, helping to prevent diabetes, obesity and some types of cancers.

Gardening is also a healthy and inexpensive way for children to learn. Research has shown children involved with growing their own vegetables, perform better at school  and develop an interest in healthy eating. Also, as they learn about their world and its seasons, they acquire a better understanding of their food, and its journey before it reaches our plates.

As the impacts of climate change become more apparent, the positive effects of gardens are increasingly crucial. No matter what the size of  our gardens, patio, balcony or allotment, each reduces the causes and effects of climate breakdown.
 

Beyond any environmental benefits, gardens are visually appealing and improve our surroundings. Garden plants support local wildlife by providing habitats and food sources for birds, insects, and other creatures. Also, growing flowers, fruits and vegetables reduces our carbon footprint ,promotes healthier eating and gives us a way to connect with the natural world, which is good for our wellbeing.