Going Green

These days there is a huge emphasis on going green, and rightly so. Every day we are encouraged to do our bit to save the planet and care for the environment.

Recycling is one way we can play our part. Another, perhaps more environmentally friendly thing that we can do, is to re-use materials that previously might have been recycled or that may have ended up in the skip. The image above right shows a good example of this principle in action. This raised bed was made from stone that had been buried under a shallow layer of topsoil. It's amazing, the stuff that builders will dispose of in your garden!

The edge of this small ornamental pool was made from off-cuts saved from a previous decking job. Within a week of filling the pool with water the first amphibious visitor arrived - a common newt. The pebble beach was added for easier access for future visitors.

Moisture-loving plants such as hemerocallis and lobelia (Lobelia cardinalis 'Queen Victoria') were planted round the pool's peimeter. A gravel mulch was added to keep down the weeds and provide a decorative finish. The pot in the pool contains a horsetail (Equisetum hyemale), an interesting architectural plant whose invasive qualities it is important to keep in check. Other aquatic plants will be added at a later date. Clicking on the images will give you a closer look.