Wildlife Gardening

White-tailed bumblebee

White-tailed bumblebee (c) Nick Upton/2020VISION

Wildlife Gardening

Go wild in your garden! Large or small, ledge or yard, your garden can be a mosaic in a wider network of natural havens linking urban green spaces with nature reserves and the countryside.

Hedgehogs, bats, sparrows, song thrushes and stag beetles are all declining species in the UK, but if we manage our gardens to benefit wildlife, these creatures and many more will find refuge.  It’s not hard to be help.  Consider a whole host of wild ideas and features – or just pick one and then sit back, enjoy the view and see who visits! 

Why have a plain, ugly fence when a green, living boundary can bring the riches of flowers, scent, berries, rich autumn colours and wildlife?  Ever thought about which heavenly-scented plants provide night-time nectar for moths?  Or digging a pond? If you introduce a water feature, not for fish but for newts, dragonflies, pond skaters, you'll also be providing water for birds. Plant up the edges with the golden blooms of marsh marigolds and the lush spikes of purple loosestrife and you'll have nectar stations for insects and beauty to dwell on.

More ways to help wildlife in your garden

Find more ways to take action for the wildlife in your garden by clicking on our guides below.

Gardening publications
Grebe House wildlife garden

Grebe House wildlife garden

Visit Grebe House Wildlife Garden

Set in the beautiful Verulamium Park in St Albans, Grebe House Wildlife Garden is a haven for local wildlife next to the Trust's head office. 

Find out more