wildflower seed
Want More Wildlife in Your Garden? It's Easier Than You Think
I get a real kick out of seeing a garden that's buzzing with life. I’m not just talking about pretty flowers, but the bees, butterflies, birds, and hedgehogs that turn a simple patch of land into a living ecosystem.
Your garden, no matter its size, can be a vital sanctuary for local wildlife. It’s a core part of my Rewilding philosophy. To show you how simple it can be, I've just put a new video up on YouTube called youtube.com/shorts/GQAVNqod0vc and this post breaks down the key ideas.
Add Water. Life Needs Water
This is the single most effective thing you can do. You don't need to build a massive Pond (though they are fantastic!). A simple birdbath, or even a shallow dish on the ground with some pebbles in it for insects to land on, will immediately attract birds, bees, and other creatures. It’s an instant win.
Provide Food All Year Round
A garden full of food is a garden full of life.
For Pollinators: Think nectar. My Planting plans always include a mix of flowers that bloom from early spring to late autumn, providing a continuous buffet for bees and butterflies.
For Birds: Don't be too quick to tidy up. Leaving the seed heads on plants like sunflowers and teasels over winter provides a crucial food source for birds when things get tough.
Create Shelter and a Place to Hide
Wildlife needs to feel safe. A pristine, overly-tidy garden can feel like a desert.
Leave a "Wild" Corner: A simple log pile, a patch of autumn leaves in a sheltered corner, or even just leaving the "bones" of perennial plants standing over winter provides a five-star hotel for insects, amphibians, and even hedgehogs. This is a key part of any Garden Clearance – knowing what to take and what to leave.
Think in Layers: A good, thick hedge provides shelter, nesting sites, and a safe corridor for wildlife to travel. Keeping it healthy with a proper Hedge Trimming schedule is vital.
Creating a wildlife haven isn't about letting your garden go completely wild; it's about making smart, conscious choices to share your space. The result is a healthier, more resilient, and far more interesting garden for you to enjoy.
If you're serious about turning your garden into a thriving ecosystem but aren't sure where to start, I can help.
Contact me today. Let's build a proper haven for wildlife together. You can reach me at kevin@totnesgardening.co.uk.
You can also follow my latest work and see more photos on my Facebook page.
“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” #totnesgardening
