Gardening for the environment

Gardens are an increasingly important part of the natural environment – as gardeners we can all help tackle both the causes and effects of climate change, right on our doorsteps

Get to know your garden

Before you make changes, you need to understand your green space and take stock of what you’ve got. Once you’ve answered these questions you’ll know where to get started to make a difference in your garden.

What is the soil like?

It may be thin and sandy, thick and loamy, or heavy clay: each has its own advantages
 

How wet or dry is the plot?

It’s easier to work with the existing conditions than fight nature

What do the new plants need to do?

Plants do many things: fight pollution, absorb excess rainfall and provide food
 

How can I reduce pollutants?

Do you really need to use chemicals or buy single-use plastics?

How green is your garden?

Use the RHS Green Garden Calculator to discover your sustainability score and get personalised tips to create a more climate and wildlife friendly garden.

Try the calculator

Make a difference in your garden

Discover four key ways to make your garden as green as it can be, reduce your carbon footprint and provide vital habitats for wildlife

10 ways to save the planet while gardening

Everything you need to know about planet-friendly gardening, and easy changes you can make to be more sustainable

Find out more

More from the RHS

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.