If you plan on attracting wildlife to your garden, you should provide them with a breeding place, food, water, and shelter. If you have all or most of them, you are likely to attract life to your garden. The following are a few tips to get started.
- Butterfly Gardens
If you want to attract butterflies to your garden, use nectar-rich flowers. Choose simple flowers and keep your plants in sheltered and sunny spots. There should be enough food for caterpillars as well. Some of the best flowers for butterfly gardens include thyme, lavender, and primrose.
- Use a Pond
Consider building a pond if you have some space in your pond. Pick a sunny spot and avoid overhanging trees. The hole you dig for your pond should be at least 77cm deep and the edges should be shallow. This way, your plants can take root and animals can easily access the pond. Designing a pond can be difficult and you should consider seeking professional help.
If you have limited space, small water dishes may be enough. Birds and other animals need bathing and drinking water. Whatever water features you choose, keep it clean and close to plants or trees where wildlife can reach them.
- Native Trees
Consider using native shrubs and trees to bring wildlife into your garden. Find plant species that survive in your area. Some of the best options include cherry, buckthorn, alder, and blackthorn.
- Serve Extra Meals
If animals do not have enough food, they are unlikely to remain in your garden. Providing extra meals may encourage them to stay. If you want to attract birds such as robin, goldfinch, or sparrows, consider using seeds or nuts. If you want to attract hedgehogs, consider leaving some mealworms around your garden. While feeding animals is great, they should not completely depend on you for food.
- Create a Habitat
Creating a habitat for your favorite animal species is a great way to entice them into staying in your garden. Hedgehog houses, bird boxes, and bee hotels are great options.
- Climbing Plants
Climbing fences on your walls and fences can create roosting and nesting sites for insects, birds, and small animals. Choose fruits, evergreens, and nectar-rich flowers. Some of the best options include wild rose, ivy, and honeysuckle.
- Composting
Composting is good for your garden and the environment. It enriches your soil and serves as home to plenty of small creatures.
- Do Nothing
Sometimes, you need to sit back and let the wildlife come to you. Dead wood will attract small insects which in turn attract bigger mammals looking for food. If you have long grass, it will attract butterflies and caterpillars. During winter, your garden can serve as a hibernation spot.
- People may plant gardens for different reasons. If you hope to attract wildlife with yours, you may need the help of a design professional like Garden Club London. The team will help you design and maintain the garden of your dreams.
