5 YEAR GUARANTEE 
It’s important to focus on taking care of our garden wildlife in the UK. There are a variety of tasks that can be done this month to ensure that our outdoor spaces are welcoming and safe for the creatures that call them home. From creating wildlife-friendly zones to planting for pollinators, there are plenty of ways to support and protect the diverse wildlife that can be found in our gardens. Let’s explore some garden wildlife jobs for June that will help us do just that.
Establishing a Wildlife-Friendly Garden Zone
To start making your garden a haven for wildlife this June, carving out a dedicated area that caters to the needs of various species is essential. Incorporate native plants, which are vital for insects and birds, ensuring they find ample food and shelter. Introducing features such as a bird bath or even a small, shallow pond can dramatically increase the attractiveness of your garden to wildlife, providing them with necessary water resources. It’s crucial to avoid chemicals like pesticides and herbicides, as these can be detrimental to the health and safety of visiting or resident animals. Opt for organic gardening practices instead, fostering a safe and nurturing environment where garden wildlife can flourish undisturbed.
Planting for Pollinators: What to Sow in June
In June, the focus turns to enriching your garden’s appeal to pollinators, a crucial step in fostering a vibrant outdoor environment. Selecting the right plants for this month is key. Lavender, with its fragrant blossoms, not only attracts a myriad of pollinators but also brings a splash of colour and an alluring scent to your garden spaces. Similarly, the buddleia, known as the butterfly bush, lives up to its name by drawing in butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers. Foxgloves offer an additional advantage, with their bell-shaped blooms creating an irresistible lure for bees. Incorporating these plants not only supports the health and diversity of pollinators but also enhances the natural beauty of your garden. By choosing to sow these specific species in June, you are laying the groundwork for a summer filled with life, colour, and the busy hum of pollinating insects, each playing their vital role in the ecosystem of your garden.
Pond Maintenance and Care for Aquatic Wildlife
Maintaining your pond is pivotal in June to ensure it remains a sanctuary for aquatic life. During this month, it’s wise to tackle any overgrowth of algae which can suffocate a pond if left unchecked. Gentle removal of algae, while keeping a balance of plant life, is key to a healthy aquatic environment. Introducing or maintaining oxygenating plants is beneficial; these plants play a critical role in maintaining the water’s quality and offer hiding spots for fish and invertebrates. Checking and adjusting the water level is also important, as evaporation can lower water levels significantly during warmer days. Additionally, consider the edges of your pond – ensuring they are gently sloped or have easy access points can greatly assist amphibians such as frogs and newts in entering and exiting the water. Engaging in these activities helps sustain a dynamic and healthy ecosystem in your garden pond, providing a vital resource for a myriad of wildlife species.
Building and Positioning Birdhouses and Feeders
Birdhouses and feeders serve as critical sanctuaries and nourishment sources for birds within our gardens. To ensure these structures are both beneficial and secure, it’s crucial to install birdhouses in locations that offer protection from natural predators and adverse weather conditions. Similarly, feeders should be strategically placed to be accessible for birds yet safeguarded against predators, including cats. Regular maintenance of feeders is vital to avert the spread of diseases among bird populations. Additionally, providing a variety of feed types can attract a diverse array of bird species, enhancing the ecological balance of your garden. Embrace these practices in June to support and nurture the avian community in your outdoor space.
Managing Slugs and Snails Without Harming Wildlife
In tackling the challenge of slugs and snails in our gardens, it’s paramount to adopt strategies that safeguard the broader ecological community. Eschewing chemical treatments in favour of more benign methods can effectively keep these molluscs at bay without endangering other garden inhabitants. Implementing barriers such as copper strips around plant bases or the strategic use of sharp grit can deter slugs and snails from reaching your cherished plants. Additionally, encouraging the presence of their natural predators offers a dual benefit; for instance, creating habitats that attract birds, hedgehogs, and frogs not only aids in controlling slug and snail populations but also enriches the garden’s biodiversity. Another environmentally friendly approach is to set up beer traps, which lure these pests away from plants. These methods collectively contribute to a balanced garden ecosystem, where managing pests does not come at the cost of harming beneficial wildlife.
Creating and Caring for Hedgehog Havens
In the pursuit of increasing hedgehog numbers in the UK, our gardens can play a crucial role. Creating safe havens for these delightful creatures is both fulfilling and necessary for their conservation. To begin in June, construct or install a hedgehog house in a quiet, undisturbed area of the garden, protected from the elements. Use natural materials or choose a purpose-built shelter, ensuring there is an entrance but no base, to allow for easy nest-building with leaves and grass.
A vital aspect of creating hedgehog havens is providing a consistent supply of water and hedgehog-friendly food, such as meat-based pet food or specialised hedgehog food, to support them, particularly during dry spells and before hibernation. Be careful to keep areas accessible, removing any obstacles that may prevent hedgehogs from entering your garden. Small gaps in fences or hedges can make a significant difference, allowing these nocturnal wanderers to move freely between habitats in search of food and mates.
Remember, the use of harmful chemicals for pest control poses a significant threat to hedgehogs. Instead, creating an environment that encourages their natural prey will not only keep your garden healthy but also provide these creatures with the sustenance they require to thrive. By dedicating a space and cultivating an environment that caters to their needs, you are contributing to the preservation and growth of the hedgehog population.
