Sustainability is a conscious part of all my projects. Not only does being outside and gardening have a positive impact on mood and brain chemistry, but the connections we make with nature help drive more sustainable behavior all around. In gardening we have an incredible opportunity to have a positive impact on our environment, and by making careful choices during the design process we can also take steps to minimize any negative impacts. For example:

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• Planting trees to capture carbon and provide cooling,

• Choosing locally grown species and cultivars that provide forage for a wide variety of pollinating insects and wildlife,

• Opting for permeable materials that slow down water flow,

• Using mulches to retain water and reduce weeds,

• Using planting schemes to work with the soil and water available. 

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Even if it is just in a small way, sustainability is a conscious part of all my garden projects. I am a firm believer that whatever the capacity, even small steps, when added together can be powerful.