Spring has sprung, and many of us have the outdoors on the brain. If you’ve got a big yard, a small outdoor space, or even a few flowerpots, you might be thinking about giving them some attention after a winter of rest. At our last Chapter meeting, we were joined by special guest Anna Thurston, a professional landscape designer and native plant specialist, who shared practical ways to make your outdoor space more environmentally friendly, while supporting your own health and well-being.
There’s a lot to explore, but here are four key takeaways to keep in mind:
Avoid chemicals.
Pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and commercial fertilizers don’t just target unwanted pests, they harm beneficial insects and wash into our waterways. Pollinators are especially vulnerable, since most insecticides are broad-spectrum and affect any insect they come into contact with. Birds depend on insects, particularly during nesting season, and can be poisoned by consuming contaminated prey or plants. Reducing or eliminating chemical use is one of the most impactful steps you can take.
Plant native species.
Native plants (those that were here prior to European settlement) have evolved alongside local wildlife and support healthy ecosystems. Because they’re already adapted to local conditions, they tend to be more resilient and lower-maintenance. In the South Sound, favorites include Red-Flowering Currant, Salal, Oregon Grape, and Western Sword Fern. If you’d like to learn more, Washington Native Plant Society is a great place to start.
Build healthy, living soil.
Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Adding wood chips (sometimes available for free from local tree services) helps build nutrient-rich soil over time. Keeping soil covered with mulch, leaf litter, or ground cover reduces weeds, retains moisture, and prevents erosion. Leaves in particular, are an underappreciated resource: they act as free mulch and provide habitat for overwintering insects like butterflies and lightning bugs. By spring, those leaves decompose, supporting caterpillars, which are an essential food source for baby birds.
Use water wisely and promote retention.
Thoughtful water use helps conserve resources and protect waterways. Planting in the fall allows plants to establish with less supplemental watering. When irrigation is needed, drip systems deliver water slowly and efficiently, minimizing runoff. Consider permeable hardscaping options, like stepping stones instead of solid patios, and aerate lawns annually to improve water absorption and recharge groundwater.
Small changes in how we garden can have an outsized impact on our local ecosystems. By reducing chemical use, choosing native plants, building healthy soil, and conserving water, we create spaces that support pollinators, birds, and clean waterways. This spring, even a few mindful updates to your outdoor space can help your garden (and your community!) thrive.
Join us at our next Chapter meeting coming in May!