Is 2019 Gardeners World Streaming

Show the planet a little love this Earth Day (Thursday 22nd April) by using your garden to help the world's ecosystem. From growing on your own delicious veggies to reducing water usage, small actions can make a big difference.

Giving nature a helping hand starts in the home. To help you create an eco-friendly outside space, The Greenhouse People have revealed some of the ways you can be more sustainable this summer. Take a look at their advice below...

1. Create a haven for wildlife

Think you haven't got space for a wildlife garden? Think again! From leaving wild patches of grass to creating an insect hotel, there are many great ways you can turn your garden into a haven for bees, birds and butterflies.

One of the easiest things you can do this summer is invest in a bird bath. Not only will the water add character to your space, but it will also encourage wildlife into your garden all year round. Make sure to change the water every few days so it stays fresh.

2. Grow your own

Growing your own fruits and vegetables might take a little planning, but you'll have a bumper crop of fresh produce in no time. As well as providing tasty salad essentials, it's a brilliant way to cut back on industrial pesticides.

'Growing your own food can do wonders for the environment and your health,' say the Greenhouse People. 'If you already grow your own, consider going one step further and producing your own soil with a compost bin, using kitchen scraps and garden waste.'

high angle close up of a bunch of freshly picked pink turnips on grey background

Mint Images Getty Images

3. Green borders

Planting your own trees will help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, while also providing private shaded spots.

Not sure which ones to choose? The Greenhouse People advise: 'Choose hedges over walls for your perimeters. Not only can they climb higher as they mature, they have sound absorbing qualities to block out nosy neighbours and make ideal nesting sites for birds. Try growing nectar-rich plants like ivy and buddleia to attract insects too.'

4. Companion planting

Companion planting — an organic method of maintaining a natural balance in your garden — will help keep pest numbers down. If you're planning your summer garden scheme, plant the right varieties and species next to each other. Garlic and rose plants, for example, work wonderfully together as the powerful garlic smell will repel pests from eating rose petals. Isn't nature clever!

Jacky Parker Getty Images

5. Reduce your water usage

Fresh water is a precious natural resource, so it's important we do our part to protect it. Not sure where to start? Some of the things you can do include planting drought-tolerant plants, installing a water butt and reusing washing-up water to feed flowers. As well as protecting the planet, you'll also reduce those soaring bills.

The Greenhouse People also recommend: 'In dry spells, always prioritise water-use by which plants need it most. Top of the list comes young plants, greenhouses, hanging baskets and window boxes. Teach self-reliance for older trees, lawns and hedges which can survive for longer periods.'

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16 stylish garden sofas for your outdoor space

Rattan Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Grandfather KOK-Style Natural Rattan Garden Sofa

With a handwoven herringbone motif, woven diamond motifs on the back and a curved seat for softness and comfort, this garden sofa is ticking all the right style boxes.

Rattan Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Swara Garden 2 Seater Sofa, Polyrattan and Black

Made from a smart rattan, this two-seater garden sofa is brilliant for modern outdoor spaces. It has been designed to endure all weather types, so you don't have to worry if it starts raining outdoors.

2-Seater Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Chevron 2-Seat Garden Sofa, Black/Grey

John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com

£39.00

Hit refresh on your outdoor space with this two-seater garden sofa. It has a contemporary look, a lightweight and durable aluminium frame and shower-resistant and washable cushioning. Grab a book and while away a long weekend...

Rustic Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Capri Garden Sofa

marksandspencer.com

£399.00

We really like the rustic look of this garden sofa, which is made from a combination of natural teak and synthetic wicker. Matching pieces are also available.

Garden Corner Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Balawa

We're in love with this garden corner sofa from MADE. It boasts a beautiful open weave frame and generous sink-in cushions – it's made for lounging.

Wooden Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Paris Sofa

gardenfurniturecentre.co.uk

£999.99

A stylish choice to suit all gardens, we love the outwardly curved sides on this teak outdoor sofa (FSC certified).

Garden Loveseat - Best Outdoor Sofa

Laverton Garden Loveseat

Breakwater Bay Wayfair

£159.99

Make the most of your outdoor space with this charming garden loveseat. We love the slatted backrest and armrests, just add some outdoor cushions for added comfort.

Grey Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Melrose Corner Sofa

marksandspencer.com

£999.00

This highly durable, contemporary outdoor corner sofa from Marks & Spencer is crafted from sustainably sourced eucalyptus. Available in a stylish grey colour, it boasts slatted detailing and the seat cushions are water repellent.

Colourful Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Basket Rope 2-Seat Garden Sofa, Terracotta

John Lewis & Partners johnlewis.com

£499.00

Bored of neutrals? Inject some colour into your outdoor space with this terracotta 2-seater garden sofa from John Lewis. Made of a synthetic rope weave, this garden sofa is designed for comfort with sumptuous shower-resistant cushioning.

Garden Sofa Set - Best Outdoor Sofa

Garden Gear California Rattan Sofa with Canopy

thompson & morgan thompson-morgan.com

£824.99

With a practical canopy, this rattan corner sofa provides a relaxing spot to unwind after a long day. The set includes one large sofa with a retractable canopy, two chairs, one stool and one U-shape table with a tempered glass top. Plus, it also fits together to create a day bed.

Small Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Hampstead Rattan Bench

grahamandgreen.co.uk

£300.00

This is technically a bench but layer up with cushions and throws, and it's the sofa you'll never want to leave. Scandi inspired, we love the deep seat and curved arms. This is perfect for small gardens.

Rattan Garden Corner Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Mini Corner Sofa Set with Storage - Brown

Habitat argos.co.uk

£300.00

Providing a cosy spot to sit outside, this corner sofa set with a multifunctional coffee table/stool comes with cream cushions for ultimate comfort. Lift the stool lid for hidden storage.

Black Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Mia Plastic 4 seater Coffee set

This rattan look sofa set in graphite (comprising 1 sofa, 2 chairs & 1 storage box) is a good price for what's included. The storage box also doubles up as a coffee table.

Wooden Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

6-Seater Wooden Corner Sofa Set

Argos Home argos.co.uk

£400.00

We've got our eye on this Scandi-style wooden corner sofa set, which has room for up to six people. It has been made from solid hardwood and comes with comfy cushions for a stylish look.

2 Seater Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Vasto 2 Seat Rattan Garden Sofa in Grey

rattandirect.co.uk

£349.00

Looking for an outdoor sofa for a small garden or balcony? This garden sofa fits two people and has a long backrest that curves down to create the arms. Comfort is assured thanks to the thick grey cushion. A free outdoor cover is included too.

Rattan Garden Sofa - Best Outdoor Sofa

Kitts Garden Sofa with Cushions

Dakota Fields Wayfair

£355.99

Designed with comfort in mind, this 3-seater garden sofa features plump cushions with water-resistant polyester fabric.

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