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Welcome Wildlife: Easy Ways to Make Your Garden a Haven
June 4th, 2024
Happy Garden Wildlife Week! Here at Eccleston Homes, we love creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also friendly to the amazing creatures that share our environment. Whether your garden is large or small, you can make a big difference for local wildlife with just a few simple changes. Here are our top tips to make your haven a wildlife sanctuary.
Create a Hedgehog-Friendly Space
Hedgehogs are wonderful garden helpers, munching on pests like slugs and insects. Sadly, their numbers are dwindling due to habitat loss. To help, cut small gaps (about 13 cm x 13 cm) in your garden fences to let hedgehogs wander freely between gardens. Pile up some logs and leaves in a quiet corner; it’s a cosy shelter and a perfect hibernation spot for hedgehogs. Here at Eccleston Homes we love these little hedgehog highways.
Install a Bird Feeder and Bath
Birds help control insects and spread seeds, promoting healthy plant growth. Hang bird feeders in safe spots and fill them with a mix of seeds, nuts, and fat balls to attract a variety of birds. Set up a shallow bird bath for birds to drink and bathe, keeping it clean and filled with fresh water.
Build a Bug Hotel
Insects like bees, ladybirds, and beetles are essential for pollination and pest control. Gather natural materials like wood, bamboo, and straw to create a cosy bug hotel. Place it in a sunny spot near flowers to attract your new tiny tenants.
Avoid Pesticides
Pesticides can harm the very creatures you’re trying to attract. Opt for organic or natural pest control methods. Companion planting—using plants that naturally repel pests—is another great strategy.
Create a Wildflower Meadow
Wildflower meadows provide food and habitat for a wide range of wildlife. Dedicate a part of your garden to wildflowers. Sow a mix of native wildflower seeds to attract bees and butterflies. Let this area grow naturally, cutting it back only once or twice a year.
Provide Water Sources
All wildlife needs water, especially in the warmer months. Besides a bird bath, consider adding a small pond. Even a shallow dish of water on the ground can be a lifesaver. Add stones or ramps to help small creatures access the water safely.
Let Nature Be
Sometimes, less is more when it comes to creating a wildlife-friendly garden. Allow a part of your garden to grow a bit wild. Let the grass grow longer, leave some fallen leaves, and let hedges become a little overgrown. This provides essential shelter and food sources for many creatures.
Happy gardening!
We’d love to hear about your wildlife-friendly garden adventures! Share your tips and experiences with us on social media using the hashtag #EcclestonHomesWildlife. Let’s inspire each other to make a difference!
