While I've written extensively about the container gardening aspect of my GreenWise theme, I haven't discussed the low-budget and sustainable focus as much.

“Reduce, Re-use, Recycle”: a catchy bit of advice that's been around for a while. How do I apply those principles to my gardening efforts?

It all starts with being mindful: observing and thinking about the plants and supplies I choose, and why, and also considering how I tend to them. For instance, I choose perennials more often than annual plants. I'm reducing the amount of money I spend (and expending less effort) when buying a plant that I can enjoy for more than one season, instead of having to re-purchase plants or seeds every spring.

Another thrifty approach is my use of compost made from household food and garden waste in place of store-bought. I also make some of my own fertilizers and insect repellents (from natural, non-chemical sources). Better for the environment, and some, like seaweed fertilizer distilled from kelp I pick up at the beach, are completely free of cost!

Although I earn a decent living these days, I spent my childhood and early adult life below the poverty level. My family recycled whatever we could, and usually bought discounted or secondhand products. So it's second nature for me to shop the “wilted plants and chipped pots” section of the nursery, and explore thrift stores and garage sales to see what could be upcycled into a planter or terrarium. I do pay full price for some high-quality products, but will always get excited about finding a bargain. (Right after Easter, Mother's Day and Christmas are great times to find discounted plants, especially at grocery stores.)

Regarding my efforts towards greater sustainability in gardening, it's not just recycling whatever I can and reducing my consumption of consumer goods. It's also considering wise water use (especially in times of drought), using only organic solutions, and observing the impact my little patch of this earth has on the local ecosystem.

Increasingly, I choose plants that could attract pollinators, hopefully aiding the declining bee and monarch butterfly populations. Native plants and drought-tolerant species are especially sensible options. I've added a birdbath that is kept filled year-long, and our birdseed and squirrel-nut feeders are popular with neighborhood wildlife. Lushly green areas like this supply fresh oxygen of course, benefitting all of us, while thoughtfully planting to take advantage of the natural resources of good soil, sunshine and shade is part of the principles of permaculture.

There's much more I could discuss on these topics, haven't even touched on the wisdom of growing your own food, but I'll wrap it up for now. Looking forward to doing some GreenWise Gardening this weekend!