Learning from nature: applying applying lessons from our ecosystem in your home garden

Most gardeners realize quickly that "gardening" is more than planting seeds and watering them. One way to tackle the establishment and maintenance of a home garden may be to draw lessons and inspiration from the natural ecosystems that surround us.

What Is an Ecosystem in Gardening?

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms interacting with one another and their physical environment. These interactions occur within specific areas, whether they are vast landscapes like forests and meadows or smaller environments like ponds and bogs. We can learn from the systems and cycles in our ecosystems and apply those understandings for a more natural approach to our gardens.

Components of a Garden Ecosystem

Just like in a larger, natural ecosystem, our garden exists as a community of interacting living organisms that include plants, insects and soil microbes which interact with non-living elements like sunlight, air, water and nutrients.

And just like in a large natural ecosystem, each of the living and non-living elements are essential to overall health of the system. For example earthworms improve soil structure, bees pollinate flowers, and certain fungi help plants absorb nutrients. When these parts work in harmony, your garden becomes more resilient and productive.

ways to apply lessons from our ecosystem in your garden

• Diversity Is Key:

  Natural ecosystems are diverse - that means they often contain a wide mix of plants that grow well under similar conditions. Make sure to use a diversity of plants as you establish your home garden and make sure all the plants you use are well adapted to the conditions of the site. Most vegetable crops require full sun (6 hours or more of bright light) to thrive.

• Healthy Plants Depend on Healthy Soil:

Microorganisms and earthworms break down dead plant material into nutrients plants

can use, while bacteria and fungi that help break down organic matter also helps plants absorb nutrients. This natural recycling enriches the soil without synthetic chemical-

based fertilizers. Organic matter and healthy soil structure improve water absorption

and retention, reducing drought stress on plants.

• "Bugs" Play and Important Role in a Healthy System:

  Although some plants can self-pollinate if necessary, most garden plants produce a more robust crop when they are pollinated by animals such as bees. Other common "bugs" are not pests, but allies in a healthy garden; predatory insects such as ladybugs and spiders feed on harmful pests reducing or eliminating the need for chemical pesticides, whoich can harm beneficial organisms, wildlife and humans.

Thoughts on Ecosystems in Gardening

Drawing inspiration from the way nature works can change how we care for our home gardens. This approach leads to healthier plants and a more enjoyable gardening experience.