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A to Z of a Wildlife Garden

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Flower border/Herb garden

Habitat

Illustration of flower border

Although flower borders and herb gardens are not natural habitats, they can be extremely valuable for wildlife. They provide food and cover for many animals and act as a refuge for some wild flowers that are becoming rare in the countryside.

It is best to grow native species as these attract the most wildlife. However many non-native species are rich in nectar so are a magnet for insects, which in turn draw in more insects, birds and other animals.

Make the most of your garden

  • Make a wild flower refuge by growing ‘endangered plants’ cultivated by specialist nurseries. NEVER take plants from the wild.
  • Plant your herb garden near the house. It’s convenient for picking and you’ll easily be able to see the myriad of insects that the herbs attract.
  • Include plants that flower late or early in the season (eg lady’s smock, chives, golden rod and borage) to encourage bees and butterflies throughout spring, summer and autumn.      

Regularly dead-heading your plants will keep the flowers coming - and the wildlife.

Insects

Mammals

Amphibians

Other