Tips for the eco-gardener (continued)

You can also make a "compost" tea using an old pillow case as the "bag" and spray it around plants for an extra boost.

For full details on the benefits and how to get started, see the Composting Council of Canada website.

Collect the rain

It's more than just a water- and money-saving measure: plants love that warm, soft, oxygen-rich water that comes from the barrel instead of the cold, chemically-treated water that comes from your hose.

If you don't already have one, now is the time to start looking because many municipalities are rolling out their annual rain barrel distribution programs. Watch for programs that coincide with Earth Day (late April) or environmental awareness events throughout the spring. If you're willing to wait in line (and pay cash, if necessary) you can get a barrel for a lot less than heading to the local hardware store.

This year the trend is getting even bigger: Some cities are even offering the much larger rainwater tanks (complete with pumps) to a number of residents as part of pilot projects examining water conservation. To see if this option is available in your area or to find out when to get your rain barrel, visit your municipality's website.

If you're feeling handy, you can even build your own. The Ottawa Horticultural Society has instructions for a Do-it-Yourself Rain Barrel.

Resist the drought

Here are a couple of words to add to your garden vocabulary: Xeriscaping and xerogardening . Both terms refer to drought-tolerant or drought-resistant landscaping. The concept isn't new, but there seems to be a renewed interest in plants and practices that use water more efficiently -- even if it means impeding on the traditional grassy lawn. Opt for alternative gardens using stones and gravel or fuss-free ground cover to replace always-thirsty and weed-prone grass.

Even if rock gardens or unusual plants aren't your thing, a sure-fire way to keep your garden looking great is to choose hardy plants that will survive and even thrive in dry and sunny conditions. The choice of plant will depend on what part of the country you live in, so it's a good idea to talk to experts in your area to find out that's a good fit. The best plant for any given area is one that won't create a lot of fuss or extra work.

Invite pest-eating guests

While we're attending to the flora in our backyard mini eco-systems, it's important to not forget the fauna. Bird feeders and birdhouses are not only pretty to look at, but they encourage avian guests to come and feast on insects that can attack plants and trees.

And they may not be as pretty, but bats are quite effective at getting rid of unwelcome pests like mosquitoes. According to Bat Conservation International, bats feed on the insects that come out at night -- and some species can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in just an hour. They're also at risk because of the large amounts of pesticides in our environment and a lack of places to roost.

While experts note that bats won't completely solve pest problems, they're can be one component of pest management. It may sound creepy, but bat houses are one way you can encourage these natural allies to settle into your property. For more information on bats and bat houses, see Bat Conservation International and Hinterland Who's Who).