Sustainable design and self-sufficient gardening are becoming more and more popular all the time. A lot of modern landscape architects specialise in sustainable garden design, and this is reflected in the ever shifting attitudes about modern landscaping and gardening.
When designing a sustainable outdoor space and garden, there are a few things that you should avoid like the plague. Some of them are very obvious, while others are less so. However, it is important to realise that all of the following things should be avoided if you want to develop a sustainable garden which is both enjoyable and environmentally friendly.
- Plants which aren’t suited to your environment:
On of the biggest issues that people face when trying to design sustainable outdoor spaces is the use of plants which aren’t suited to their environment. Unfortunately, many modern garden plants are from places like Europe and the Americas, where it is usually cooler and moister than in Australia. This means that these plants will need a lot of water and fertiliser to survive in Australia’s tough environment, and they will therefore have a large environmental impact.
- Plastic and synthetic materials:
Unfortunately, plastic is everywhere in the modern world. Its ease of use, versatility, and affordability make it attractive for a wide range of uses. However, it is also very damaging to the environment. Plastics and other synthetic materials leach chemicals and other toxins into the environment, directly impacting plants and animals. If possible, avoid using plastics in your yard.