Share
From the smallest insect to some of the wild animals we share our habitat with, everything needs to be in balance for not only wildlife to thrive but for our survival.
From bees pollinating crops to garden birds picking off the slug from your lettuces, balancing the world around you with a wildlife-friendly garden can be done – we just need to be reminded how to make our gardens a haven for us and them!
Hints and tips
Unfortunately, some of our habits make for a less-than-welcoming environment for wildlife. The closely cropped lawn, the perfect border, the must-pull-every-weed and keep the garden so-very-tidy means that the natural cover many insects and small animals seek is not there.
Also, our desire to keep the garden pest-free, we have traditionally used chemicals that although successful in getting rid of a pest, also got rid of other friendly insects and animals.
The time has come to change.
Building a wildlife-friendly garden
As well as changing our habits, we also need to change our gardens to once again welcome back wildlife into the garden.
This infographic contains all the information you need to create breeding and nesting spaces, as well as the plants that are attractive places for the laying of eggs, as well as providing material for nests.
Part of sustainability
It is a conversation that is never far from the headlines and yet, despite us knowing how much the earth is heating up and how much we need to change, making the change can be difficult.
Environmentalists say that small changes, made consistently is the best way to make a difference. And this is true when it comes to your garden.
From making your compost with food scraps and other organic matter, to not using chemicals in the garden to actively encouraging wildlife into your garden, small changes will make a big difference.
Why not plant trees, for example, to encourage birds into the garden? Planting native flowers and shrubs is also a great move – they add colour to the garden but are also perfect for native species of insects and other animals.
Creating small holes at the bottom of fences and stonewalls are also a great help for hedgehog finding their way into your garden, enjoy the rich and varied food sources you are now encouraged to grow in your outdoor space.
What changes will you make?
The truth is, there are no changes to your garden that will cause you a problem – in fact, encouraging more wildlife into your outdoor space will mean more variety and a richer climate for you to enjoy! Whilst you are here why not consider adding an oval extending dining table to your garden so you can sit and eat in your garden whilst enjoying the wildlife.
Anna is the marketing and office manager for Garden Benches – a premium supplier of high-quality wooden benches and other outdoor furniture.
