Going Wild in the Garden

Gardens are the place to be in spring and summer.  This is when the results of wildlife gardening efforts are most visible – wildflowers planted for pollinators are in bloom and attracting bees and butterflies, young frogs and toads are emerging from ponds, and fledgling birds are taking advantage of rich pickings at bird tables.

Wildlife gardening isn’t only for those in rural areas, or with a big backyard. Urban gardens are just as important for wildlife. If planted with the right varieties, even a window box can be a bonanza for bees.  There are also many opportunities to get involved with community wildlife gardening projects with local Wildlife Trusts. For example, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has launched its Dig In project in York, running gardening clubs and events at locations throughout the city.  And at London Wildlife Trust’s Centre for Wildlife Gardening there are opportunities to get wildlife gardening advice, pick up plants grown by the Trust or honey from their hives, and visit the wildflower meadow or stag beetle sanctuary.

On 14 and 15 July Wildlife Trusts around the UK are running events to celebrate Our Garden wildlife. There’s a variety of activities on offer, from pond-dipping to making planters for wildlife. It’s a great opportunity to get to know some of the wildlife gardens in your area, and find out what you can do to make your own garden part of a network of wildlife havens. Details of Our Garden wildlife events are available on The Wildlife Trusts’ website.  You can also join a 4,000-strong community of keen wildlife gardeners by registering on the Big Wildlife Garden website.

 

Post by Tanya Perdikou, The Wildlife Trusts