Common, well loved, easily purchased plants.

November-February
Winter aconites
Winter flowering Mahonia
Lonicera
Viburnum

March
Crocus

Primrose
Polyanthus
Single snowdrops
Violets
Fruit blossom, pear, plum, cherryApri
CowslipsLupins

May
Aquilegia Grape hyacint
Borage
Hardy Geraniums

June/July
Angelica
Catmint
Honeysuckle
Thyme

Sages/Salvias

August
Buddleia
Dahlias
Helenium
Lavender
Seedum
Sunflowers

September/October
Aster
Colchicum
Echinacea
Rudbeckia
Always do a little research when choosing plants, as some non-native plants can overpower native species, resulting in their decline. Some non-native species however, such as Cotoneaster and Pyracantha are extremely beneficial to birds. British wildflowers, meadows or strips of meadow are always a bonus and it’s always worthwhile to leave a nettle patch for butterflies.

Many plants, especially summer bedding are utterly sterile and are of no benefit to pollinators. You will always know which plants are providing a food source as they will be teeming with pollinarors.

Harsh chemicals and pesticides are lethal to wildlife so it’s better to avoid them. Companion planting and natural sprays are suitable alternatives.

Every little helps be it a window box, or pots on a terrace. They all play their part. Trees, fruit trees, shrubs, evergreens and ivy provide wildlife with shelter, food and a place to raise their young. The greater the diversity, the more wildlife attracted. Avoid pruning during breeding seasons, and when trees are laden with fruit, nuts and berries.

Shrubs and hedging provide the perfect habitat for hedgehogs, especially during hibernation. Leaf mounds under hedges and bushes are also helpful, as they provide extra warmth and protection.

Ivy and climbing vines are ideal nesting sites for small garden birds.
Over-tidy gardens that are mainly flagged or decked provide little for wildlife. Birds need access to worms and other creatures that can be found in/under lawns. Grassy areas also help to prevent flooding.

Add turf, especially wildflower seeded turf to the tops of sheds and other small structures.

Leave seed heads on plants for birds during autumn and winter, along with fallen fruit, berries and nuts.

• Provide birds with food and water throughout the year. [See Wildlife section/wild birds]

• Install a bird bath; this will help birds keep their feathers in pristine condition.

• Always ensure fresh water is available for small mammals, especially during dry spells.

• A pond will attract a huge variety of wildlife; always ensure that small mammals can climb out by adding a plank or branch. Many ponds can now be bought with an inbuilt amphibian ledge.

• Never allow a pond to freeze, place a football in the water during cold spells. Remove during the day and return at night.

• No pond is ever too small, even a sunken bin lid attracts wildlife and can mean the difference between life and death for many creatures.

• Water plants will aerate a pond and provide cover for frogs, toads, tadpoles and other water species.

• Cut a small hole in party fences to allow hedgehogs to move to other gardens and expand their territory. Alliances between multiple neighbours can create diverse hunting grounds for hedgehogs.

• Create a ladybird/solitary bee house from small canes. Insect houses can be made from all manner of natural objects including pine cones, straw and canes.

• A log pile or a few logs will attract a variety of insects and provide a haven for overwintering butterflies and moths to hibernate.

• Provide bird/owl boxes.

• Be extra vigilant when fledglings are on the ground. Keep pets indoors during these periods.

•Compost heaps, log piles, leaf litter and bark mulches that are allowed to rot and decay provide food and homes to a host of creatures. Always check compost heaps for hedgehogs, bees nests, and other creatures before disrupting.

• Keep gardens and green areas free from litter, cans, plastic cups, broken glass, plastics and torn netting.