Planting native plant species and attracting natural predators and pollinators can result in a more beautiful, and eco-friendly, garden. photo: WWF-Canon / Chris Martin Bahr

Spring is finally upon us, and with nature in full bloom, many people's thoughts are turning to their gardens. As you prepare for planting, keep in mind that with a little care, you can create a garden that is remarkable both for both its beauty and the ecological benefits it provides.

"Why just plant a garden when you can create an ecosystem?" asks Taylor Ricketts, director of World Wildlife Fund's Conservation Science Program. "Green gardening not only beautifies your home but also provides habitat for native plants and animals."

Gardening with the environment in mind allows you to enjoy nature while helping to maintain healthy ecosystems. Remember these things when planning your patch and you can be guaranteed to have a truly green garden.

• Collect rainwater to water your flowers.
• Let part of your garden grow freely and see what wild flowers appear.
• Plant local species of trees.
• Plant pollinator-friendly plants, to attract butterflies and moths to your garden and provide them food.
• Never take plants or pick flowers from anywhere in the wild.
• Buy bulbs from cultivated stocks only (ask the shop or gardening center for advice).
• Stop using chemical pesticides -- try to use natural products instead.
• Use traps, parasites, and natural predators such as ladybirds.
• Use disease-resistant and pest-resistant plants.
• Use organic compost and mulch to improve soil health and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
• Don't use peat in your flower beds and vegetable gardens (peat is taken from ancient bog land, destroying some of our most precious wildlife areas). Instead, make your own compost with grass clippings and vegetable scraps from the house.
• Use plants that repel insects. Some herbs and flowers - including basil, chives, mint, marigolds, and chrysanthemums -- mixed in with other plants, help keep pests away.
• Don't use electrical equipment like leaf-blowers as they consume so much energy for so little gain. Use a rake instead -- it's better for your health too!
• Never pour antifreeze, oil or other chemicals on the ground, into storm sewers or down the drain. Take these toxic substances to your local waste disposal facility.
• Don't buy garden furniture or decking made of tropical hard wood -- mahogany for example -- unless it's got a Forest Stewardship Council label.
• Take time out to sit out in your backyard with friends and family, and appreciate the beauty of nature!

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