FREE gardening resources from King County agencies

The Seattle area is filled with eco-conscious folks. As a result, there are tons of resources available to residents who are new to composting, organic gardening, and integrated pest management. I've received several free gardening guides from a number of King County agencies including Seattle Public Utilities and King County Solid Waste Division. There is also a Lawn and Garden Hotline operated by Seattle Tilth where area gardeners can receive free expert advice.

The most fabulous thing I've received has been a photo guide to beneficial insects, of which an electronic version is available here. The photos are incredibly clear, unlike other publications I've seen. I've seen this little book selling for $3.95, though it is available for free from local nurseries.

All of the brochures I've received are available from the Lawn and Garden Hotline or these sites:

Soil and composting (King County)
Yard and garden topics (King County)
Natural lawn & garden care (City of Seattle)
Water conservation, indoors and outdoors (Saving Water Partnership)
Washington State University Master Gardener information
Less toxic gardening and pest control (Local Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County)
Choosing the right plant for the right place
Native plant information
(Links reprinted from the brochure, "Natural Yard Care," produced by King County Solid Waste Division, Seattle Public Utilities, and the Saving Water Partnership.)

Finally, the Solid Waste Division also operates a site called EcoDeals where King County residents can find information and coupons for "green" companies and products.