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Get your green on in the garden

Sustainable living  ›  Natural gardening  ›  How-to tips and videos  ›  Spring garden tips

Springtime in the garden. Ready to dig in? From clearing out the chemicals to picking native plants, growing green brings big benefits to people, pets and the planet. Get started today with these five tips from Metro.

Shake out the shed

Got pesticides? Round them up from the shed and drop them off at one of Metro's household hazardous waste facilities or periodic collection events. Replacing toxic chemicals with compost, organic fertilizers, hand tools and other nonhazardous garden helpers makes for a safer yard and healthier waterways.

Prep the soil with compost

Time to harvest that soil-like stuff from the bottom of your compost bin. It's compost indeed so scoop or shovel it out, spread it and fork it into your planting beds. Only work the soil when it's a bit moist, however, (not dripping wet) to protect its structure and ensure drainage. If growing typical edibles, roses or annual flowers consider adding a little organic fertilizer to the soil. Avoid overfertilizing which can increase pest or disease problems.

Plant a few native plants

Brilliant red-flowering currants, gorgeous Oregon grapes and delicate trilliums hint at the amazing array of great garden natives. Match them with the sun, soil and moisture conditions they like and you'll gain a low-maintenance oasis that brings birds, bees and butterflies to the yard. Many nonnative plants get a thumbs up too, but steer clear of invasive species such as ivy and butterfly bush.

Grow some organic food

Don't miss the simple satisfaction of picking tomatoes, strawberries or lettuce from your own yard. A wood-edged raised bed in a sunny spot can pump out the produce - with just a little love and care. Add a few Mediterranean herbs, berry bushes and bean plants to your border beds and enjoy the colorful, edible bounty.

Add just a little water

Don't let stray sprinklers, damaged drip lines and forgotten timers blast your water bill. Check for leaks, adjust your timers to the weather and avoid overwatering to conserve water, save money and protect the health of your plants. Butterflies, bees and birds need water, too. Make a bug bath by filling a tray with pebbles or sand and water.

Related Links

Is your garden chemical toxic?

Metro’s Grow smart, grow safe guide is now a searchable interactive directory, too. Discover the least hazardous products and practices for a healthy, productive garden and a safer yard.

Guide to effective composting

Learn how you can save money and reduce waste by composting certain food scraps and yard waste. See information on different methods, and read about easy solutions to composting problems.

Guide to hazardous waste

Wondering what to do with those old paint cans, motor oil and solvents? Find out what materials are hazardous and where and how to safely dispose of them.