Creating a wildlife friendly garden

Creating a space for nature isn’t just helping the environment, it can be very rewarding. A wildlife friendly garden will be alive with activity from the hum of bees, flutter of butterflies and song of birds. Many wildlife visitors such as birds and frogs also act as pest controllers, reducing the need for chemicals.

Attracting birds to your Garden

Attracting birds to your garden is a great starting point. Add a bird feeder offering a mix of seeds, suet and fruit to cater to different species of birds. To provide shelter, consider installing birdhouses, which are perfect for nesting birds during spring and summer. Don’t forget to include a birdbath or shallow dish of clean water, as this will give them a place to drink and bathe.

Replace fences with hedgerows

Hedges made from native species such as hawthorn, beech or blackthorn provide food and shelter for birds, insects and small mammals. They can also act as wildlife corridors, allowing animals to move safely between areas.

Plants for pollinators

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hover flies are essential for a healthy garden. Choose plants rich in nectar and pollen to encourage their visits, lavender, foxgloves and beebalms are great choices.Plant flowers that bloom at different times of the year to provide a continuous food source and use organic alternatives to protect pollinators from harm.

Create wildflower meadows

A patch of wildflowers is a magnet for pollinators, they are also visually pleasing and low maintenance once established.

Add a water feature

Adding a water feature can dramatically increase your garden’s wildlife appeal. Even a small pond can attract frogs, newts and dragonflies. To enhance its value, add aquatic plants such as water lilies for shelter and oxygenation.

‘No Mow’ Zones

Introducing ‘no mow’ zones is another impactful way to support wildlife. Allowing sections of grass to grow wild creates habitats for insects and small mammals. Plants such as daisies and clover can thrive in unmown areas, providing vital food sources for pollinators. To keep your garden accessible, you can mow defined strips to create pathways while leaving the rest untouched.

Final thoughts

By making small changes to your garden design, you can create a sanctuary for local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature all year round.

Contact SP Landscapes

For professional landscaping services or advice on garden design for a wildlife friendly garden, get in touch with us today.