Wildlife gardening

Build habitat before buying accessories

Wildlife needs four essentials: food, water, shelter and routes between them. A mixed hedge, layered planting, long grass and a small water source often achieve more than a collection of gadgets. Let some seed heads stand through winter, leave a discreet log pile and reduce unnecessary tidying. Even a balcony can offer nectar-rich pots and shallow water.

Feed birds responsibly

Choose a sturdy feeder that is easy to dismantle and clean, place it where birds can see approaching danger, and provide nearby cover without giving cats an easy ambush point. Offer suitable food in modest amounts and remove anything stale or mouldy. Wash feeders regularly and move feeding positions occasionally to prevent waste building up beneath them.

• Use a shallow bird bath with a rough surface and gently sloping sides
• Refresh water frequently, especially in warm weather
• Keep feeders, tables and baths clean
• Pause feeding and clean thoroughly if you see signs of disease

Help pollinators across the seasons

Aim for flowers from early spring to late autumn. Single, open blooms are easier for many insects to use than densely doubled flowers. Crocus, pulmonaria and fruit blossom help early visitors; lavender, salvia and oregano serve summer; ivy and late asters extend the season. Avoid pesticides wherever possible and tolerate a little leaf damage as part of a functioning garden.

Nest boxes, bee hotels and ponds

Match a nest box to the species and position it away from strong sun, prevailing wet weather and busy feeding areas. Bee hotels work best when dry, firmly fixed and responsibly maintained; replace split or mouldy nesting material. For water, even a container pond can be valuable—add an escape route, avoid steep slippery sides and never introduce wildlife taken from natural ponds.