We are constantly told about the importance of recycling and reusing materials in our homes and there is no reason that this can’t apply for our gardens, too. The abundance of garden furniture and equipment available means that it can just be easier to buy them, but there is nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing something you have created yourself put to good use. What’s more, recycling often means spending less money, making it a win-win situation. However, if you are unsure of how to incorporate recycling into your garden, this guide could help.
1.Recycle Water
This is one of the easiest ways of incorporating recycling into your garden and the way that it works. Water can be recycled by reusing bath and washing up water (providing that they aren’t too dirty or detergent-laden), or simply by collecting rainwater in a water butt. This water can then be used to water plants and your lawn and is especially useful during the summer months when it doesn’t rain quite as often as usual.
2.Make Your Own Compost
Making your own compost is another easy way of recycling in the garden, and makes use of kitchen waste that would be thrown away otherwise. You can simply section off a small area to use as a compost heap, or buy a purpose made composter or wormery to keep things more contained and tidy.
3.Plant Containers
You don’t need to buy new plant pots in which to plant your flowers in order for them to look pretty, and a plant pot made from alternative materials can even make them look better, in fact. Old pallets, or wooden fruit and vegetable trays can add a really rustic look to your garden, if they’re lined to hold the soil.
4.Artwork
Artwork made from recycled materials is usually more interesting because each piece is unique and hasn’t been mass produced in a factory. You can make garden art work out of any materials you like that might otherwise be thrown away. This could include broken glass bottles, bottle tops and wood or twigs- let your creativity flow! You can be sure that it will always act as a topic of conversation, too.
5.Seating
Basically anything that can be sat on can be used as garden seating, with a few adjustments. Old pallets stacked and screwed together can make simple, bench-like seating, made comfortable with some cushions. However, if you really want to be adventurous, why not use an old rowing boat, barrell or oil drum as somewhere to sit in the garden. Before allowing anyone to sit on old materials, you should first ensure that they are secure and sturdy enough to hold a fully grown adult’s weight in order to avoid any unnecessary accidents.
Do you have any more ideas on how to use recycling in the garden? Share your tips in the comments below!
[Photo Credit: karenblakeman]
