Is your garden a wildlife-free zone? You could be doing more harm than good by trying to keep insects and animals out. In fact, your garden needs a varied ecosystem to flourish. Insects like bees and butterflies pollinate your flowers and wild birds eat slugs and snails, stopping them from ravaging your plants without using chemicals.
The problem is that wildlife numbers across Britain are falling. Their habitats are diminishing and native species in particular are finding it harder and harder to survive.
But there is good news, too: YOU can help. With just a few simple steps and some extra plants, you can attract more wildlife into your garden. Now imagine this: there are 15 million gardens in the UK, covering an area of approximately 270,000 hectares. If everyone in the country created a wildlife haven in their garden, it could make a big difference, even saving species from extinction!
Wildlife-friendly garden maintenance
In general, the best way to attract more wildlife is to avoid using too many chemicals around the garden. The less chemical sprays and pellets you use, the more beneficial insects you can attract into your garden. They will then eat plant-destroying wildlife, or attract birds and other animals to do the job for you. This is not just better for the wildlife, it’s better for you, for the garden and for the environment.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
thank you for the fun ideas, :) makes me smile
I got all the birds names right and i didn’t cheat.