Climate Change and Gardening: Adapting to a New Normal
Extreme Weather on the Rise
Last year was a wake-up call for the world. Heatwaves, wildfires, and floods became more common, leaving many wondering if this is our “new normal.” Scientists warn that climate change is making these extreme weather events more likely.
Adapting Gardens to Drought
At the National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall, gardeners are adapting their gardens to cope with drought. They’re replacing water-loving plants with drought-tolerant ones, like gingers and olearias. They’re also using mulch to lock in moisture and protect the soil.
Water Conservation Techniques
Gardeners can also adopt other measures to conserve water, such as:
- Dipping ponds to collect rainwater
- Using porous paving to absorb excess water
- Mulching gardens to hold in moisture
- Choosing plants that are naturally drought-tolerant
Learning from Nature
The best way to adapt our gardens to climate change is to learn from nature. By observing how plants and animals survive in extreme conditions, we can develop strategies for our own gardens.
Creating Resilient Gardens
By implementing these measures, gardeners can create resilient gardens that can withstand the challenges of climate change. These gardens will not only be beautiful but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.
