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Garden Wildlife in June
Wildlife Gardening Tips
June is a busy month for wildlife in the garden. Flowers are blooming, insects are buzzing, and birds are nesting. Here are some tips on how to attract and support wildlife in your garden:
- Plant pollinator-friendly flowers: Cosmos, heleniums, and Verbena bonariensis are all great choices.
- Leave water out for small mammals: Hedgehogs and other small mammals need water to drink, especially during dry spells.
- Use gray water to keep plants hydrated: This will help keep your plants healthy and producing nectar for insects.
- Take care when pruning and tidying: Check for eggs and larvae on the underside of leaves before composting.
- Consider building a bee hotel: Leafcutter bees and red mason bees are important pollinators that can benefit from a bee hotel.
Wildlife Spotting in June
Keep an eye out for these wildlife sightings in June:
- Leafcutter bees: Look for perfectly cut holes in rose leaves, wisteria leaves, or other “floppy-leaved” plants.
- Green shield bug nymphs: These small, turtle-like bugs can be found on the underside of leaves.
- House sparrows: House sparrows are still raising young, so you may see them feeding their chicks.
- Hedgehogs: Female hedgehogs give birth in June. If you see a hedgehog out during the day, it’s likely a lactating female looking for food.
- Rose chafers: These beautiful beetles can be seen feeding on roses and other flowers.
Helping Insects Complete Their Lifecycles
Insects play a vital role in the garden ecosystem. Here’s how you can help them complete their lifecycles:
- Avoid using pesticides: Pesticides can harm insects, including beneficial insects like ladybugs and green shield bugs.
- Provide nesting sites: Bee hotels, birdhouses, and hedgehog houses can provide shelter for wildlife.
- Plant a variety of flowers: This will provide food and habitat for different types of insects.
By following these tips, you can create a wildlife-friendly garden that supports a diverse range of creatures.
