Gardener urges people to 'never' throw away one item that protects plants

For many, being sustainable when is really important, and using products that would otherwise go to waste is a key way to be more sustainable in your outdoor space.

Someone behind the 'Ideal Home Show' page shared a "free and sustainable gardening hack" that they'd recommend trying.

If you try it, you can seriously nourish your , and make them thrive. "Don't ever get rid of your wood ash. It's a fantastic and sustainable way to look after your garden," she shared.

Wood ash is the powdery residue left behind after burning wood, such as in a fireplace or bonfire.

She continued: "Wood ash is fabulous to sprinkle around your plants, to make a little barrier that prevents the slugs and snails from crawling onto the leaves and eating your plants. Ash is also packed full of potassium and other nutrients for healthy soil".

It is important to note that small amounts of wood ash should be used, and it should be mixed well into the soil. Excess ash can build up salts and make the soil too alkaline, potentially harming plant roots.

Also, only use ash from untreated, chemical-free wood. Ash from painted, stained, or treated wood may contain harmful chemicals or toxins that can harm plants.

If you use wood ash responsibly, it can serve as an excellent natural soil amendment and fertiliser for gardens.

More ways to garden sustainably

Sustainable gardening is all about working with nature to create a thriving, eco-friendly space. One simple practice is composting kitchen scraps and yard waste to create nutrient-rich soil amendments, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Collecting rainwater in barrels or other containers is another effective way to conserve water and use it for watering plants during dry periods. You can also plant native species that are adapted to your local climate, as they require less water and maintenance while supporting pollinators and other local wildlife.

Incorporating companion planting into your garden can help deter pests naturally - for example, planting marigolds near vegetables can repel harmful insects without the use of pesticides. Mulching around plants is a great way to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds, all while reducing the need to water.

If you have extra produce or plant cuttings, consider sharing them with neighbors or swapping seeds to promote community and reduce waste. Building healthy soil through no-till gardening is another effective method, as it preserves soil structure, minimizes erosion, and encourages earthworms and beneficial microbes.

Lastly, repurposing household items, like using old containers as plant pots or turning broken tools into garden art, gives waste a second life and adds character to your outdoor space. Sustainable gardening isn't just good for the environment - it also enhances your connection to the natural world.