It’s nearly summer … nearly, I can almost feel it. We will soon all be spending time enjoying the outdoors again. And whilst we are all moving to a more sustainable way of living, even just by making small conscious choices, have you considered that, whilst it’s technically more challenging to be eco-friendly in the winter (especially during harsh winters), it’s a tad easier to mitigate this in the summer months.
Specifically, if you’re spending time in your garden, this is the best way to go about it. Oh yes, enjoying nature’s embrace is more than pretty flowers and chirping birds. Embracing your garden this summer might just be the most sustainable choice you make, and here’s why.
You’re Getting Back to Nature’s Roots
Life moves at lightning speed these days, and it’s easy to forget the beauty that surrounds us. But your garden is a sanctuary of tranquillity, where the gentle rustle of leaves and the vibrant colours of blooming flowers remind us of the simple joys in life. It’s a chance to disconnect from the chaos of the world and reconnect with the Earth. But how is this sustainable?
Well, it’s less likely you’ll be using your phone, or electronics for that matter. Most likely, you’re just want to sit under your verandah (regardless of rain or shine),and just relax. You’re just in the moment; nothing is getting used, nothing is getting wasted, you’re just enjoying nature and appreciating how important this is.
Growing Green Goodness
What’s more sustainable than growing your own food? Actually, just tending to your garden means saying goodbye to plastic-wrapped produce and hello to fresh, organic goodness right from your backyard. While it’s not that possible in the colder months, the summer is honestly the best time to do this.
Even if you have a small space, you can still take advantage of it and grow smaller things. Technically, even on a balcony, you can grow some vegetation (such as microgreens). So, with that all said, just by reducing the need for transportation and supporting local ecosystems, you’re making a real difference for the planet – and your taste buds will thank you, too!
Here’s a video of my daughters growing carrots in a plant pot:
You’re Welcoming Wildlife
Your garden isn’t just for you – it’s a bustling hub of life for all kinds of creatures, big and small. You owe it to nature to, well, help nature! There really isn’t that much work that needs to go into this, either. Just by planting native species and creating a welcoming environment, you’re providing food, water, and shelter for birds, bees, butterflies, and more. It’s a beautiful way to support biodiversity and make your garden truly come alive.
Our favourite family activity recently was when we built a bug hotel out of recycled materials. It was a whole family project and the girls loved it.
It’s the Perfect Way to Nurture Yourself
Spending time in the garden isn’t just good for the Earth – it’s good for your soul, too. There’s something oddly relaxing about getting your hands dirty in the soil or even just simply soaking up the sunshine. But in general, gardening has a way of lifting your spirits and grounding you in the present moment. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what truly matters.
It is great to see how small changes, like growing our own food and creating habitats for wildlife, can make such a big difference.