Gardeners have been noticing changes in the climate for years. The growing season is longer and plants that used to be considered too tender can now survive in more northern regions. In fact, the hardiness zones have shifted northward. The Arbor Day Foundation created new hardiness zone maps, in 2006, to reflect this change. The USDA released new maps in 2012.
climate smart gardens
Follow the strategies below to help your garden adapt to the changing climate and to reduce the climate footprint of your garden. Some of these practices act as adaptation and mitigation (reducing greenhouse gas emissions) strategies. And– these practices are good, sustainable gardening techniques that build soil, conserve water and reduce synthetic chemical inputs.
soil
- test soil before adding fertilizer
- skip synthetic fertilizers
- feed soil, not plants
- maintain (or add) soil organic matter
- add compost to gardens and lawns
- prevent erosion
- avoid tilling
- don’t use peat or potting soil that contains peat
water
- aim for a yard and garden independent of irrigation
- use mulch in gardens to hold water & reduce weeds
- conserve water & water wisely
- collect rainwater in rain barrels
equipment
- use human-powered tools to prevent air pollution
- minimize the use of outdoor lighting
- use materials that have small footprints
landscape design
- shrink your lawn
- design with shade and sun to save energy at home
- grow your own food
- plant native flowers and grasses
- plant trees & shrubs
- plant perennials
- provide habitat– for birds, pollinators, insects and other critters
- install rain gardens
- watch for invasive plants
food
- grow your own food
- extend your vegetable gardening season
- rotate crops
- share the harvest with people and animals in need
last updated April 2015