What is an Ecological Garden?

An ecological garden and ecological agriculture are plant and animal-based productions that do not have any adverse side effects on the environment, human health, or that do not harm the environment nor the agricultural areas.

In modern agriculture, extreme or inadequate use of chemicals, herbicides, and pesticides leads to the destruction of harmful insects in the soil as well as the beneficial organisms. Thus, the soil becomes infertile and the biological diversity decreases. Research conducted in Germany revealed that uncontrolled use of pesticides has caused extinction of 75% of the insect species over the past 20 years due to toxic accumulations in the soil.

A great majority of these chemicals are released into the air within six hours when artificial fertilizers are used. Chemicals within the artificial fertilizers dissolve in water resources, hence, contaminate the environment when it rains. Furthermore, hormones used in animal breeding and genetically modified seeds used in agriculture threaten animal health as well as human health.

Basic principle of ecological agriculture is not to increase the production but to enhance the quality of products without harming the environment. Ecological agriculture gained popularity in Turkey in the early 2000s. Ecological agriculture has started to develop not only as a production technology but also as a philosophy of life in our country. Training programs on soil protection and improvement, automated systems, data-soil analyses, improvement techniques, and sensor technologies usage have been accelerated among producers and farmers.

How to Create Ecological Gardens?

In an organic garden, harmful insects are inhibited naturally and by planting aromatic herbs in the garden to repel the harmful insects. Certain herbs such as basil, rosemary, thyme, daffodils, sage, or chamomile repel harmful insects when planted adequately. Not only do these "companion plants" repel harmful microorganisms, but they also contribute to the visual appeal of the garden.

Raising social awareness on the issue contributes to the increase in the number of individuals who prefer buying products of ecological gardens. Whilst the significance of environmental sustainability becomes more pronounced, people distance themselves from the use of environmentally harmful chemicals.

​Biodiversity is the prerequisite of an eco-garden. It is crucial for a garden to have the widest possible variety of plants, vegetables, and living organisms. Gardening is a creative process. An eco-garden should incorporate fountains and ponds, diverse tree species and bird feeders to encourage wildlife. Elements that compose a microhabitat such as bees should be treated with respect.

The optimal care and development of an ecological garden consist of three key elements:

• Adequate use of water and light sources,
• Avoiding extinction of insects; and use of natural ingredients to repel undesired harmful insects,
• Use of natural fertilizers.

The Process of Creating an Ecological Garden

1. Gain a thorough understanding of the soil and conduct a detailed analysis of the land,
2. Use only natural fertilizers,
3. Create a nutrient source in the soil with homemade compost,
4. Use dry elements such as leaves and tree barks as a substrate for the soil, enrich layers with residues of green plants, crushed eggshells, carbohydrate- and nitrogen-rich organic elements.

7 Methods of Creating an Ecological Garden

There are different ways to achieve environmentally friendly production in a garden and transform a garden into a sustainable and waste reducing environment based on renewable energy resources;

1- Composting

Contrary to the popular belief, composting is an easy process. By decomposing food scraps and organic waste, composting contributes to the natural enrichment of soil quality. Based on the size of an ecological garden, composting can be carried out in containers or in a dug-out pit in a reserved area within the garden.

2- Using Organic Methods

Avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers, prefer non-GMO seeds.

3- Rainwater Harvesting

The cheapest and most natural way to irrigate an ecological garden is to install rainwater tanks and store rainwater. This method not only decreases the carbon footprint but also contributes to the environment by reusing natural resources and promotes savings.

4- Local Consumption

When producing local species in eco-gardens, they naturally adapt to the natural conditions of the soil and require less fertilizers. Using "heirloom seeds" that are compatible with the elements in the soil will result in the most productive harvest. By consuming local products, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint!

5- Embracing Birds

Instead of using chemicals to repel harmful insects that damage the eco-garden, it is better to protect beneficial organisms like caterpillars, ants, or snails and install bird feeders. Birds serve as natural pest controllers.

6- Using Eco-Friendly Tools

Using electric lawnmowers instead of gas-powered ones and employing non-chemical-treated tools and eco-friendly furniture contribute to making an eco-garden sustainable.

7- Utilizing Solar Energy

Utilizing solar energy and installing solar energy panels enables eco-gardens to be supplied environmentally friendly energy.

Create Your Own Ecological Garden on Your Balcony!

If you do not have a garden, you can still join the increasingly popular trend of "growing vegetables on the balcony." Pots, sacks, and jerry cans may come in handy.

Methods of Creating an Ecological Garden on the Balcony

• The secret to planting vegetable seedlings in pots lies in the depth. The section from the root to the lower leaf of the seedling should be around 1-2 centimeters below the surface.
• When planting the seedling, the leaves should not touch the ground.
• It is important for the seedling roots to get air and contact the soil.
• Whether planting seedlings or seeds, the pot should not be filled completely with soil.
• For vegetable seedlings, earthing up is essential; approximately 5 centimeters should be left from the top of the pot.
• Vegetable seedlings should not be overwatered to avoid rotting.
• Seedlings can be prone to disease both in pots and in the garden, so natural remedies should be prepared.

There's no need for a large garden or move to a remote village to avoid the concrete blocks of the city! You can achieve composting on your balcony and grow your own plants, flowers, and herbs.

Why Are Ecological Gardens Important?

Creating an ecological garden and practicing ecological farming not only contribute to a sustainable world but also reduce our carbon footprint. It not only facilitates access to healthy food but also promotes the widespread adoption of practices that protect the environment. Perhaps even more importantly, ecological gardens can help us reconnect with nature, restore our mental well-being, and provide a respite from the hectic pace of daily life.

If you have a yard and the opportunity, consider creating an ecological garden or setting up a small garden on your balcony!