Creating a garden that is vibrant and full of wildlife is most gardeners’ dream, and yet some can find it very difficult. Of course, having an abundance of plants and flowers helps but there are some other key steps you can take to create your very own wildlife friendly garden.
Choose the right plants
Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, making them the best choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. They provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for native species, ensuring that your garden becomes a true sanctuary for local wildlife.
Select a Variety of Plants
Diversity is crucial in attracting a wide range of wildlife. Include a mix of trees, shrubs, flowering plants, and grasses to provide various habitats and food sources throughout the year. Plants like hawthorn, elderberry, and lavender are excellent choices for attracting birds, bees, and butterflies.
Plant in Layers
Design your garden with different layers—ground cover, understorey, and canopy—to create a multi-dimensional habitat. This structure mimics natural ecosystems and offers shelter and nesting sites for various species.
Consider Soil Specific Plants
Choose plants that thrive in your soil type. For example, if your soil is clay-heavy, opt for species like oak, ash, and blackthorn, which are well-suited to these conditions. This ensures that your plants will be healthy and robust, providing better support for wildlife.
Include wildlife accessories
In addition to plants, your garden should include features that encourage wildlife to visit, stay, and thrive. Creating habitats is a great way to make your garden more inviting to birds, insects, and small mammals.
Build a Bug Hotel
Insects play a vital role in the ecosystem, from pollination to decomposition. Create a bug hotel using natural materials like bamboo canes, bricks with holes, and twigs. Place it in a sheltered spot to provide a safe haven for solitary bees, ladybirds, and other beneficial insects.
Adding these things doesn’t need to be expensive, a bug hotel is the perfect way to create an affordable wildlife habitat in your garden. This RSPB video shows you how to build your very own bug hotel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJcOdXIXuv4
Install Bird Feeders and Nesting Boxes
Birds are an essential part of a wildlife-friendly garden. Provide them with food and nesting sites by installing bird feeders and nesting boxes. Ensure these are placed at different heights and locations to cater to various species.
Create a Water Source
A pond or simple birdbath can attract a wide range of wildlife, including frogs, dragonflies, and birds. Ensure the water source is clean and accessible, with shallow areas for smaller creatures.
Having healthy soil
Of course this is going to be on our list, but the importance of healthy soil cannot be underestimated. Healthy, nutrient-rich soil is the foundation of a thriving wildlife garden, providing the basis for strong plant growth and a balanced ecosystem. Healthy soil is full of microorganisms, nutrients, and organic matter that plants and wildlife depend on.
Having healthy soil will not only encourage your plants & flowers to be strong and healthy but it can also be the breeding ground for a range of insects that help keep the ecosystem of your garden thriving.
We appreciate that picking the right soil can be tough, if you are ever unsure what would be best for your garden you can call one of our experts on 023 9263 2531 or you can contact us here.
By focusing on these sustainable practices, your garden will not only be a beautiful space but also a vital part of the local environment, contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance. Happy gardening!
