Wildlife Gardening for Beginners
What is Wildlife Gardening?
Wildlife gardening is creating a space in your yard to help wildlife thrive. You can do this by planting certain plants, creating habitats like log piles and ponds, and avoiding harmful chemicals.
Benefits of Wildlife Gardening
- Provides homes for wildlife
- Helps slow down species decline
- Improves mental health
- Supports pollinators
New Year’s Resolutions for Wildlife
Here are 10 ways to make your garden more wildlife-friendly:
1. Plant a Tree
Planting a tree benefits wildlife, the planet, and you. Choose trees that provide food and shelter, like rowan, hawthorn, or crab apple.
2. Let Grass Grow Long
Even a small patch of long grass can be a haven for wildlife. It provides food, shelter, and nesting sites for insects, small mammals, and birds.
3. Stop Using Pesticides
Pesticides kill wildlife indiscriminately. Instead, use organic pest control methods or let natural predators keep pests in check.
4. Grow Plants for Pollinators
Pollinators need flowers to survive. Plant a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year to support them.
5. Set Up a Compost Heap
Compost heaps provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, hedgehogs, and beetles.
6. Be Nice to Dandelions
Dandelions provide early food for pollinators and caterpillars. Tolerate a few in your garden to support wildlife.
7. Be Less Tidy
Leaving leaves and spent perennials can provide shelter for wildlife over winter.
8. Put Up a Nest Box
Birds need safe places to nest. Put up nest boxes to encourage them to breed in your garden.
9. Add Water
A pond or even a bird bath can provide water for drinking, bathing, and breeding for wildlife.
10. Talk to Your Neighbors
Spread the word about wildlife gardening to encourage your neighbors to help wildlife too.
