Creating an animal-friendly garden is a rewarding endeavour for numerous reasons. It enhances the natural beauty of your outdoor space. It supports local wildlife. It’s also something that can entertain and educate the younger members of your family, and the older ones, too!
So, how do you create an animal-friendly garden? Whether you have a vast back garden or a modest green patch, this guide details several ways to turn your outdoor space into a haven for birds, insects, and small mammals.
Get Professional Assistance from a Landscaper
Yes, you can tackle numerous aspects of creating an animal-friendly garden on your own. However, it’s always wise to consult a professional landscaping company first before undertaking this type of project. This is particularly the case if you have a larger or more complex garden.
A professional provider such as rightscapes.co.uk can help to design and implement a cohesive plan, one that integrates different habitats and features seamlessly into your garden layout. Additionally, a landscaper can advise on the best plants and features to attract specific wildlife. Their expertise also means these elements aren’t just functional for animals, but also aesthetically pleasing for you.
Plant Native Species
When doing the work on your own, one of the easiest and most effective ways to attract local wildlife is to plant native species. These plants, as the name suggests, have evolved alongside local animals, and are perfectly adapted to meet their needs.
They provide the right kind of shelter and food. This could be nectar for butterflies, for example, or berries for birds. To find out which plants are native to your area, you can do some research online or consult with a local garden centre.
Create a Water Source
All animals need water to survive. This makes it a no-brainer to add a water feature to your garden. Even something as simple as a birdbath or small pond can be a major draw for wildlife. Plus, the sound and sight of water isn’t just appealing to animals, it can add a serene, welcoming element to your garden.
Just remember to make any water safe and accessible for small creatures to prevent them from drowning.
Offer Shelter and Nesting Sites
Another key for a family-friendly garden is to supply shelter. There are various ways to achieve this goal. It can be achieved by leaving some areas of your garden a little wild, with piles of leaves or wood where insects and small mammals can find refuge. Alternatively, structures like birdhouses or insect hotels are great for offering safe nesting sites.
Position these shelters in quiet, sheltered areas to make them more appealing to their intended inhabitants.
Avoid Chemicals
To maintain a truly wildlife-friendly garden, you must avoid using harmful chemicals. Pesticides, herbicides, synthetic fertilisers can all be detrimental to the very creatures you’re attempting to attract. Instead, opt for organic gardening practices. This means if you do encounter pests, use natural remedies, or introduce predator species, such as ladybugs, to control the situation.
Similarly, when using additional food to attract wildlife, make sure that everything is natural and provided in the correct way.
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