Common Sense Gardening (CSG) encourages gardeners to conserve water, use alternatives to pesticides, and choose less-toxic pesticides when necessary. This system of gardening highlights the importance of preventing pests and weeds through proper plant spacing, appropriate watering, mulch, compost, and slow-release fertilizers. When pest and weed control is necessary, the least-toxic method is employed; chemical pesticides are used as a last resort.

Learn more about Common Sense Gardening by attending the annual garden tour, visiting our displays at special events around the County, or reading a Common Sense Gardening guide.

Thurston County Environmental Health is working with more than 300 Puget Sound organizations involved in "Puget Sound Starts Here," a public education campaign to stop the daily flow of 140,000 pounds of toxic chemicals from entering Puget Sound. Click the logo to connect directly to the program, or contact an environmental educator for more information and how you can get involved.

By reducing the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers and conserving water, Common Sense Gardeners protect our lakes, streams, rivers, and Puget Sound.