Ecological gardening

Ecological gardening has to be the way of the future. It involves almost a complete turnaround in approach. Instead of just choosing plants that appeal to you and adapting your garden conditions to suit them, you assess what your site offers and select plants that suit it - often with very different results.

Although species native to your area will form the core of plantings (because they are naturally adapted to the climate, soils, drainage and so on), exotics are not out of the question providing they match your local conditions.

Pesticides and herbicides are frowned upon because the aim of ecological gardening is to encourage a system in balance with local wildlife. Birds, insects, lizards and perhaps even small mammals will then seek out the refuge you are creating. Water availability and a new attitude to 'tidiness' can encourage the return of wildlife, which, in turn, helps keep pests and diseases under control.

There are many other benefits too. Some gardeners find endless interest in the procession of new wildlife visitors and residents. You're also likely to feel more in tune with the world around you. The time you once spent pampering plants can now be used for coming into closer contact with birds feeding and nesting, lizards basking in the sun and insects foraging.

Yes, adjustments are not only necessary but essential - and if you feel that you aren’t quite adept at the moment, take heed of the environmental warnings around you.