SEASONAL THOUGHTS FROM PLANTING GEMS
WILDLIFE FRIENDLY GARDENS
We have noticed in recent times an increasing number of clients requesting ‘wildlife friendly gardens’ – We all want to do our bit for the environment and climate change, and we can make a difference by the way we use our outdoor spaces, even if limited to containers and pots.
It is important first to get to know your garden – and to assess the soil, orientation, moisture levels and the space generally. It is easier to work with the existing conditions than fight nature, and far more sustainable. Get your soil into good condition by digging over compacted soil, mulching and going peat-free. Start composting if you have space. Also start conserving water and install water butts to utilise excessive rainfall and cope with periods of drought. Create a miniature wildlife pond – even a bowl of water will be valued by birds, many insects and reptiles. Consider replacing boundaries with living, green barriers such as trees and hedges – they naturally capture pollution, reduce noise, mitigate flooding and provide food and shelter to wildlife.
Then consider the planting and choose the right plant for the right place. There are wildlife friendly plants for sun and shade and areas in between. Some weeds are particularly loved by bees and other pollinators so consider leaving a wilder area where there is space. The Wildlife Trust recommends that gardeners establish ‘nectar cafes’ of flowers with simple structures that are easier for insects to feed from. Consider the seasons and try and have food available throughout the year – for example winter-flowering plants such as Daphne and Mahonia which also have a wonderful scent, and Spring bulbs such as bluebells and crocus, and Pulmonaria and Symphytum for the Spring! In the Summer, Buddleia is known as the Butterfly bush for good reason and there are many perennials and annuals which will provide pollen. Persicaria and Sedums are covered with bees and insects at the end of the Summer.
It will also help to stop using pesticides (a squirt of washing up liquid will often resolve the problem) and to limit the use of slug pellets by swapping them for beer traps!
You will soon have a haven for wildlife.
Happy Gardening!
Anne and Caroline – Planting Gems
07729 835988 & 07930 876348