Overview
In a recent initiative to promote sustainable gardening practices, we embarked on a small project to plant 150 shrubs, 8 mature native trees, and 12 metres of hedgerow without the use of herbicides or plastics. This case study explores the environmental and community benefits of such an approach, highlighting the key outcomes and lessons learned
Background
The project aimed to create a green space in an urban area suffering from pollution and lack of greenery. The choice to avoid herbicides and plastics was driven by a commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. Traditional planting often relies on plastic for various purposes, such as guards, cable ties, mulching films and protective root barriers. Similarly, herbicides are commonly used to control weeds. By avoiding these, the project sought to demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of more eco-friendly methods.
Implementation
- Selection of plants: The plants chosen were native species, selected for their resilience and compatibility with the local ecosystem.
- 150 shrubs: Varieties included native flowering shrubs known for attracting pollinators.
- 8 trees: UK native trees were chosen to help reestablish a treeline and support local biodiversity.
- 12 metres of hedgerow: This was made up of mixed native UK species to create a habitat for wildlife.
- Biodegradable guards: We sourced cardboard, biodegradable shrub guards that could be used without the need for cable ties. The guards were lined with a photolytic plastic coating that naturally degrades when exposed to UV over five years.
- Natural mulching: Organic materials such as straw and wood chips were used for mulching to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Manual weeding: Weeds were controlled manually rather than with herbicides. A mix of mechanical tools and hand pulling would be used to prevent weed regrowth.
- Reduction in plastic waste: By eliminating plastic, the project significantly reduced the amount of plastic waste generated. This also prevented potential soil and water contamination from plastic degradation.
- Enhanced soil health: The use of organic mulches improved soil structure and fertility, promoting healthier plant growth.
- Increased biodiversity: Native plants and the absence of herbicides created a more hospitable environment for pollinators and other wildlife.
Community benefits
- Research value: The project served as a live demonstration of sustainable practices, showing the feasibility for larger scale plastic-free planting projects in the future
- Enhanced aesthetic and biodiversity value: The planting reestablished the treeline and created a habitat corridor where the previous trees had been taken down to access utilities running underground. Increased connectivity between woodland areas is a critical factor in maintaining biodiversity and preventing localised extinctions of native wildlife.
Project gallery
Outcomes
- Survival and growth rates: The shrubs, trees and hedgerow showed excellent survival and growth rates, which were attributed to the healthier soil conditions and careful plant selection.
- Waste reduction: The project successfully demonstrated that significant amounts of plastic waste can be avoided in planting projects.
Lessons learned
- Initial effort and cost: While the initial effort and cost of sourcing compostable materials were higher, the long-term benefits outweighed these challenges by removing the need to return to dispose of the plastic guards and cable ties. The material cost of herbicide applications was avoided.
Conclusion
The plastic-free planting project effectively showcased the multiple benefits of sustainable gardening practices. By avoiding plastics and herbicides, the project not only protected the environment but also protected the natural beauty of the area by preventing unnecessary plastic waste being littered on the ground. This case study underscores the feasibility and advantages of such practices, providing a model for future urban greening projects.