If you’re wondering how to create a nature-friendly garden, GTSE has revealed six expert tips. Trees and shrubs provide year-round cover for insects, flowers provide nectar-rich food, and birds will love your new garden. You can even plant hummingbird flowers and fruit trees. The possibilities are endless. Here’s how to get started:
Planting hummingbird flowers
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, plant nectar-rich flowers. Plants with red tubular flowers are particularly popular. Pink and orange varieties also attract hummingbirds. Avoid white and purple varieties, as these have little nectar. For maximum hummingbird attraction, plant different species of flower in your garden in varying sizes, shapes, colors, and bloom times. Several hummingbird-friendly flowering plants can be found at your local garden center.
Planting fruit trees
Aside from providing shelter and food for wildlife, fruit trees are also a great way to make your garden a more eco-friendly area. They are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they need regular watering and proper care to grow to maturity. Planting fruit trees in your garden is an easy task, and it doesn’t require any special skills. In addition to a beautiful view of the fruit tree, it will also ensure your family’s wellbeing and the health of the surrounding environment.
Creating a wildlife-friendly habitat
Wildlife friendly gardens do not have to be a riot of color. Even small gardens can become important habitats by using textured walls, bird boxes, and hanging wildflower baskets. Plant low-lying herbs in cracks and crevices around your home to attract insects. Drilling small holes into fence posts can provide a habitat for ladybirds and solitary bees in the spring and fall.
Creating a bird house or bug-hotel
Building a bird house or bug hotel is a great way to attract wildlife to your garden. The construction of a bug hotel can be done using many materials including clay bricks, wood or frames. You can even use old tiles for the base of the bug hotel. Once built, the bug hotel should be placed in a sheltered area of your garden where it will be safe from the elements. Once completed, it is a perfect place to overwinter for insects.
Harvesting water from the rain
A rain garden is an excellent way to collect stormwater. Rain barrels and permeable pavers can help to collect stormwater. Native plants are a great choice for rain gardens because they are adapted to local conditions and have deep root systems. Plus, these plants don’t require much maintenance and attract beneficial insects. The plants also work to absorb nutrients. Harvesting water from the rain can also reduce metals and organic compounds.
Planting native plants
Native plants have many advantages over non-native plants. They grow well in the climate where they are native and require less maintenance than non-native species. They provide a habitat for native wildlife and approximate the value of the natural ecosystem in terms of habitat. Non-native plants are commonly used for aesthetic purposes, but may not be as eco-friendly as you would hope. Here are some things to consider before planting native plants.
Creating a sustainable garden
Creating a sustainable garden means considering your environmental impact. You can still create a beautiful landscape without going overboard. To achieve this goal, plan your garden carefully and follow a schedule. Generally, you should leave at least six to twelve inches between each plant. To make it look lush and beautiful, plant perennials, annuals and trees in spaced-out beds. Once you’ve decided on the type of garden you want, choose native plants and choose companion plants that thrive in your area.