Knowles Nets’ top tips for sustainable gardening

Take your sustainable gardening game to the next level with these super tips from Knowle Nets.

1. Take an eco-friendly approach to pest control
Pollinating insects are on the decline due to loss of habitat and changes in agriculture. So, it’s important not to add to the problem with measures that might harm the beneficial visitors to the garden as well as deterring the more unwelcome ones. Slug Catcher and Copper Tape are great alternatives to chemical pellets and many pests can be prevented from reaching your crops by using nets and protective covers – make sure they are fixed tightly over a frame or cage to avoid birds getting caught up in loose netting. 

2. Choose your planting wisely
Native plant species will attract the greatest number of indigenous bees and other pollinating insects – if you can leave an area of your garden a little untended to replicate hedgerow or meadow, you will reap the benefits, as these attract a range of beneficial insects.
 
3. Make your own compost
If you have the space, a compost heap is of huge benefit to your garden and helps cut down on your household waste – recycle natural waste such as vegetable peelings and grass cuttings and you can quickly turn your kitchen waste into an organic fertiliser, making soil richer and healthier.

4. Use sustainable pots and planters
It’s important to avoid single-use plastics in the garden where you can. This doesn’t necessarily mean replacing all of your plastic pots and trays, but do make sure you look after them well and reuse them year after year – root trainers can be used for up to 10 years and then recycled.

5. Use mulch to conserve water 
Mulching is another way to minimise water usage. Spreading a biodegradable mulch such as compost, leaf mould or wood chippings around a plant or over soil will provide protection from the sun, prevent drying and suppress weeds. Apply a thick layer of mulch from mid- to late-spring and autumn, when the soil is moist and warm.

Knowle Nets has a 50-year heritage, hand finishing products in Dorset. Find out more at knowlenets.co.uk

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