Creating wildlife-friendly gardens in the south east

Welcome to the wonderful world of wildlife-friendly gardening! Not only does creating a haven for local wildlife enhance the beauty of your garden, but it also supports our local ecosystem. Here in the south east, we’re lucky to have a diverse range of wildlife that can thrive right in our gardens. Let’s explore some tips and ideas to turn your garden into a wildlife paradise.

1. Choose native plants

Going native is a fantastic way to start. Native plants are perfectly adapted to Kent's climate and soil, making them a great choice for supporting local wildlife.

• Wildflowers: Think cornflowers, oxeye daisies, and primroses. These not only look beautiful but are also great for attracting bees and butterflies.

• Shrubs and trees: Hawthorn, blackthorn, and hazel are like five-star hotels for birds and insects.

2. Create diverse habitats

A variety of habitats can make your garden a bustling wildlife hub. Here’s how you can add some diversity:

• Pond: Even a small pond can be a magnet for frogs, newts, and dragonflies. Add some shallow edges for easy access.

• Wood pile: Stack some logs in a corner to provide a cozy home for insects, amphibians, and small mammals.

• Wildlife meadow: Let a patch of your lawn grow wild with native grasses and wildflowers. This will attract all sorts of pollinators.

3. Provide food sources

Extra food sources can make your garden even more inviting.

• Bird feeders: Different types of seeds, nuts, and suet will bring a variety of birds to your garden.

• Nectar-rich plants: Plants like lavender, honeysuckle, and foxgloves are perfect for attracting bees and butterflies.

4. Create shelter and nesting sites

Safe, cozy spots for nesting and shelter can make all the difference.

• Bird boxes: Place bird boxes at different heights to attract various bird species.

• Insect hotels: These are a fun DIY project or you can buy them, and they offer great shelter for beneficial insects.

• Hedges: Swap out fences for native hedges. They’re fantastic nesting sites for birds and small mammals.

5. Avoid chemicals

Ditching the chemicals is a big step towards a healthier garden.

• Companion planting: Use plants that naturally deter pests. For example, marigolds can help keep aphids away from your veggies.

• Natural predators: Encourage ladybirds and hedgehogs, which are natural pest controllers.

6. Provide water

Water is crucial for wildlife. Besides a pond, there are simple ways to add water sources:

• Bird baths: Place them in safe, visible spots and keep the water fresh.

• Shallow dishes: Small dishes of water can be a lifesaver for insects and small animals.

7. Leave some areas untidy

A little mess can be a big help to wildlife.

• Leaf piles: Leave piles of leaves in the corners of your garden. They provide shelter for insects and small mammals.

• Long grass: Let some grass grow longer. It’s a great habitat for insects and provides seeds for birds.

Conclusion

Turning your garden into a wildlife haven can be incredibly rewarding. Not only will you be supporting local biodiversity, but you’ll also enjoy the daily visits from birds, bees, butterflies and more. If you’re looking for some professional help to get started, we’re here for you. Let’s work together to make the south east a greener, more vibrant place for all our wildlife friends!