Gardening 101: How to Grow Plants Amidst Climate Change

Many gardeners and backyard wildlife enthusiasts have observed how climate change is already having a substantial influence on their backyard environments.

Extreme weather conditions have affected not only the lives of humans but also the way gardening has been done.

Along with changing what you plant in your garden in response to shifting weather patterns, you may take efforts to help decrease the rate of climate change.

Here are some practical suggestions for learning more, getting engaged, and taking action directly in your own yard.

Reduce the amount of single-use plastic that you use in the garden

If you buy transplants, search for seedlings grown in biodegradable containers instead of plastic. If you start your own seeds, reuse last year's plastic pots and seedling trays instead of purchasing new ones, or make your own pots out of newspaper. However, to avoid disease transmission, make sure to thoroughly clean recycled plastic pots to remove clinging dirt and start with new containers if disease is present.

Disposable plastic greenhouse sheeting, which is used for season extension or hoop house coverings, typically has a three- to five-year lifespan. Replace it with a more durable material, such as recycled windows or polycarbonate panels. Check with your local nursery to see if they recycle plastic pots. Some nurseries provide rewards for returning plastic pots.

Recycle your food waste into compost

Composting prevents kitchen leftovers and yard clippings from ending up in landfills. No yard for a large compost pile? Not a problem! Consider starting a composting worm bin, or ask your garbage agency if kitchen scraps can be placed in your yard waste bin.

Reduce the threat of invasive species expansions and incorporate diverse native species instead

Removing invasive plants from your yard and replacing them with native alternatives can help reduce the risk of invasive species expansion.

Native plants serve to maintain critical pollinator relationships and provide food for wildlife, but nonnative plants might compete for habitat and food. Contact your local or state native plant society to learn what plants are native to your area.

Reduce water consumption

There are several strategies to reduce water use in your garden, which is especially crucial during prolonged heat waves and droughts. Mulching, rain barrel installation, watering schedule adjustments, and drip irrigation are all options. Mulching also provides nutrients to the soil, decreasing the need for artificial fertilizers, which require a large amount of energy to create.

Plant more trees

Trees help remove carbon from the atmosphere, and a well-positioned tree can lessen the demand for air conditioning.

Plant trees to the west of your property to block out the hot afternoon light. Shading your air conditioner also improves its efficiency and saves money on electricity. Check with your municipal government or neighborhood tree planting groups to find low-cost tree options.

Reduce the use of gasoline-powered yard tools

Avoid using gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers. Instead, use human-powered instruments like push mowers, hand clippers, and rakes, or limit the quantity of lawn that requires upkeep. Using a gasoline-powered mower for one hour pollutes 10 to 12 times more than the average car.

Although the projections for climate change are dire, they are not unavoidable. While major consequences are expected, taking efforts now to limit carbon emissions will significantly mitigate the effects.