The impact of climate change is being felt in many different ways in the world of gardening.
Increasingly unpredictable weather, changing precipitation patterns and unprecedented heat waves pose significant challenges to gardeners and They can wreak havoc on even the most well-cared-for plants.
It is very important to implement sustainable practices in gardening and landscaping to curb future warming, reduce carbon emissions and increase carbon storage in soil and plants.
Also adapt gardens and green spaces and make them compatible with climate change, adding native plants, improving soil health, growing vegetables and plants that are more resistant to heat, and making more convenient use of rainwater.
This is what we call climate-resilient gardening., so next we will learn how to modify practices to help slow the pace of climate change, benefiting all of us who live on Earth.
Understanding the impact of climate change on gardening
Before we can begin to discuss tools for managing climate change in gardening, it's important to first understand how climate change can affect plants and wildlife in a variety of ways.
In general, the high temperatures associated with climate change can have a negative effect on a wide range of agricultural and horticultural activities.
One of the most significant consequences of climate change is the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as severe storms and heavy rainfall. These types of phenomena can cause flooding, soil erosion, and other types of ecological damage that are difficult to control.
In addition, climate change can alter the distribution of plant and animal life in a region, which can make it difficult to predict the behavior of local wildlife and pests.
For example, the range of some invasive plant and animal species may expand, threatening native species and posing new challenges for gardeners.
How it affects plants
Other factors that can influence the life cycles of plants are that Warmer temperatures cause earlier than normal spring flowering and become very vulnerable to late frosts.
Also, the lengthening growing season may benefit some plants, but greatly upset the balance of others.
Other species may adapt to changing climate conditions or be forced to modify their distribution areas, and in some cases face extinction.
Increased pest pressure may occur due to warmer temperatures and increased rainfall patterns, as a result, more diseases, making them more visible and lasting.
Insect populations, including pollinators, can also be altered by these changes in temperature and precipitation, affecting plant reproduction.
Tools and solutions for managing climate change in gardening
Select native plants and trees
One of the most effective ways to adapt to climate change in gardening is to select plants that are more tolerant of heat, drought, and extreme weather.
When selecting plants for your garden, it's important to consider which plants are best suited for your particular region. Planting native plants in the right locations It will help you conserve water, fertilizers and pesticides since they are adapted to that type of climate and soil.
Planting more trees will help you save energy and filter stormwater, improve air quality, and improve soil health.
Furthermore, Planting small or medium-sized trees near your house will help keep it cool in the summer. and warm in winter. This reduces energy consumption, and you can save money on your electricity bills.
It's also a good idea to check the National Drought Monitor and local climate data to better understand the types of weather conditions likely to occur in your area.
If you carefully choose the plants you grow in your garden, You can mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure that your garden remains beautiful. and productive.
Integrated pest control
Pests and insects can pose a significant challenge for gardeners in the face of climate change, since some species can thrive in warm and humid conditions, which are increasingly common in many areas.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a sustainable approach to pest management that combines various strategies, including cultural, mechanical, and biological methods. These insects can become a problem and unbalance the landscape. due to the use of pesticides or if the plants are unsuitable.
Because of this problem, many beneficial predatory insects have been eliminated. Therefore, Before resorting to chemical herbicides, you can explore different biological options And if you do need to use them, you need to make sure you research the product and follow the label instructions.
Irrigation and irrigation systems
Water is a precious commodity in many parts of the world, and it is important for gardeners to use it as efficiently as possible.
Irrigation systems can be a great tool to manage climate changes, ensuring that plants receive sufficient water even in the face of rising temperatures and drought.
These can range from simple systems of drip irrigation to more complex automated irrigation systems that take into account local weather data.
It is also important to implement drought-resistant plants to save more water. A very efficient way to use water is to install rain barrels, adapt an irrigation schedule and use drip irrigation.
Shade greenhouses and temporarily covered areas
Another useful tool for managing weather changes in gardening is the use of shade greenhouses and other temporarily covered areas.
These structures can help protect plants from the intense sun and act as a buffer against extreme weather events. Depending on their size and design, greenhouses can also help regulate the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Soil management
Soil health and fertility are essential to successful gardening, and it's important to ensure your garden soil is healthy and resilient to weather changes.
This can be achieved through various soil management practices such as improving soil structure, adding organic matter and the application of no-till or reduced-till cultivation techniques.
It's very important to reduce the use of peat and peat-based mixes in soils, considering the environment. Since peat is a nonrenewable resource, harvesting it releases large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere, which is very harmful to the area's biodiversity. As an alternative, Use mixtures containing coconut fiber, compost, or water-retaining materials.
You can also add homemade compost, using materials you discard as household waste. Furthermore, if you throw that material into a landfill, it can produce greenhouse gases. A good option is to incorporate it into the soil, which captures carbon.
Use hand or power tools
They're a sustainable way to garden, they're more economical, and they also allow you to exercise. Gas-powered gardening machines produce emissions that contribute to the climate crisis.
If hand tools aren't enough, you can use electric options to minimize the impact on air quality. Electric tools are also quiet and prevent contamination from drained fuel in the garden. There are solar-powered options to avoid the use of electricity.
Grow your own food
It's much more rewarding and more economical; remember, market-bought food requires a lot of resources, from growing to transporting and processing.
If you grow your own food it will be in a more sustainable way, You can have your own garden and try different varieties that may not be available on the market.
These foods have to travel many miles to reach your plate, and many emissions are generated in the process. Plus, growing your own fruits and vegetables to supplement your diet is a great way to maintain a balanced diet without pesticides or chemicals.
Monitor and respond to local conditions
Finally, one of the most important tools for managing climate disturbances in gardening is the ability to carefully monitor and respond to weather and local conditions.
This may include monitoring local weather data, observing signs of plant stress, and staying abreast of changes in the typical growing season.
Therefore, It is very important to stay informed and be prepared to adapt and make changes when necessary. This way you can work in the garden with peace of mind and ensure that it remains healthy and productive.
Finally, a good option that can benefit everyone is Participate in gardening projects to collect data and learn how to conserve biodiversity, and share and apply it among all.
By implementing these practices and working sustainably and responsibly in your garden, you will be playing a very important role in mitigating climate change and creating more resilient and sustainable gardens.