While the extent of environmental issues we are facing today require community, region and world-wide efforts to address them, there are still many things we can do in our own homes and backyards which are beneficial for the environment and our own health & wellbeing, as well as setting a positive example for our chidlren and neighbours. Below are just a few ideas, however there are many more - if you are having trouble thinking of any, try the mantra of our age - 'reduce, reuse, recycle!'

1. Plant a backyard for wildlife

Check out the brochures on our Flora and Fauna page for ideas on how to create a backyard that is not only enjoyable to spend time in, but provides homes for Bulimba Creek's native animals.

2. Keep a worm farm or compost bin for food scraps

When food scraps end up in land fill, they break down to produce harmful greenhouse gases such as methane, and the great nutrients which could be going back into our productive soils are wasted. Try keeping a worm farm at your home - it reduces landfill waste, and produces great liquid and solid fertilisers for your garden. If you're not into worms, compost bins, with a little bit of work, produce healthy, nutrient rich soil that's great for growing next season's plants in. And if you're really pressed for space, bokashi buckets break all food (even meat scraps!) down into a great liquid fertiliser.

There are hundreds of great composting guides out there - have a look at 'The Compost Revolution' or search for other information relevant to your local area.

3. Waterwise gardening
Start from the ground up
Keep your soil in good condition by the addition of lots of organic matter such as manure and compost. This will improve and enrich the structure of your soil as well as encouraging beneficial micro-organisms and earthworms.
 Fertilise regularly
Twice a year in autumn and spring. Vary the products used to ensure your garden is getting a well-balanced diet. In autumn spread pelletised manure fertiliser over the garden to slowly release organic feeding through autumn and beyond. Around sensitive plants such as natives use blood and bone instead. In spring apply a controlled-release fertiliser (there are different formulations for different plant types), then cover with a mulch of cow manure to supply organic and inorganic nutrients.
Tip: Two cap fulls of seaweed liquid fertiliser in a watering can, each time you water does wonders for water efficient root systems and soil permiability.
Mulch – what does it do?
Mulch helps protect soil and roots that grow in it like insulation. Importantly, it holds moisture within the soil by reducing both evaporation and weeds. It acts as a stabiliser on sloping garden beds to help prevent soil erosion in heavy rain. It should be spread thickly to do its job, between 5-10cm, depending on the size of the plant.
Organic or inorganic?
Organic mulch is derived from plant by-products such as straw, shredded timber and bark, and tends to break down over time. It needs to be topped up periodically, but there are advantages – legume plants such as pea straw or lucerne hay actually release nitrogen into the soil as they decompose. All types of organic mulch improve soil’s structure and water-holding capacity.
Tip: When applying wood-derived products as mulch, always apply a dressing of manure or appropriate complete organic fertiliser to the soil first. This counters the tendency of fresh wood materials to absorb nitrogen from the soil as they break down.
Inorganic mulch mainly consists of rock-derived materials in all sorts of colours and sizes, from small gravels through to large river rocks. Like organic mulch, inorganic mulch suppresses weeds and retains moisture in the soil. It does however have a much greater life span and rarely needs replacing. It is a "finishing touch" for gardens, so ensure your plantings are in place before spreading.
Tip: First put a layer of weed mat over the area to be mulched. Not only will this stop weeds from pushing through but will also make mulch easier to remove and replace if you need to change the look later.
Go native
There is a vast array of native plants that require minimum watering. Use these as replacements for thirsty, maintenance-intensive exotics.
 Think big, plant small
Buy plants in "tubes", often called "tubestock" that may cost as little as $2 each. Despite their size they establish very quickly, sending out deep-running drought-resistant roots. Their growth will often overtake plants from larger pots with much less water needed to get them established. Plan your planting
Overcrowding a garden bed may be great for instant impact but it leads to a multitude of problems such as high water use, pests, fungal diseases and poor performance from competition. Plant for the finished design and not for instant gratification. Read labels carefully and plant at recommended spacings.
 How much water?
Water regularly for six weeks until plants are established, thereafter as required. Natives are very economical and need little or no watering after establishment.
When to water?
Watering is best done in the cool of early morning or evening (always be aware of Council restrictions!). Don’t waste water on foliage and empty areas. Use a nozzle with a cut-off trigger and turn off flow between plants. Apply water directly to mulched soil around "drip line" of your plants. Don’t waste water on lawns – they will bounce back after rain!
 Install rainwater tanks
There are many different types available including above-ground, slimline, underground or bladder types and under-eaves, that will capture rainwater for use in your garden or home. Most people install tanks of a capacity between 2,000 and 5,000 litres. There may be siting and plumbing issues if the water is to be used in your home. Council rebates may apply on installation. Use the water as soon as you can to maintain your capacity to collect more.
Grey water
About 60% of indoor residential waste water is classed as "grey" water. This is water from showers, hand basins and laundry. Consider a diversion system to put some of this water to use in the garden. Check Council regarding regulations and installation. Don’t store grey water for later use and ensure it cannot flow into neighbouring properties.

Happy waterwise gardening!
Susan Jones, Secretary M.E.G Mt Gravatt Environment Group
Proudly sponsored by Brisbane City Council (Habitat Brisbane & Community Grants)