Gardening with nature in mind
Sustainable gardening focuses on creating attractive, resilient gardens while reducing waste, excessive watering and reliance on chemicals. Many traditional gardening practices can be adapted to work more closely with local conditions and wildlife.
In East Dean, Friston and the South Downs, sustainable gardening often means choosing drought-tolerant plants, improving soil naturally and encouraging biodiversity rather than constantly battling difficult conditions.
Simple sustainable gardening practices
- Water deeply and less frequently to encourage stronger root systems.
- Mulch borders in spring to reduce moisture loss during summer.
- Leave some seedheads and stems through winter for wildlife.
- Choose plants suited to local soil and weather conditions.
- Reduce pesticide use wherever possible.
- Compost garden waste to improve soil and reduce landfill.
