Rewilding your own space
On the 20th March, people across the globe will celebrate the first ever World Rewilding Day. Rewilding is a form of environmental conservation where humans should take a step back to allow nature to manage itself and thrive once more. We can all do our bit to raise awareness in protecting the nature we have and trying to restore all that has been lost.
Weeds are just displaced plants
I have always loved the phrase ‘weeds are just displaced plants’ but it doesn’t fill me with such joy when it comes to the removal of them, especially the bindweed! Anyone who has owned a garden, big or small, will know that it is a constant battle where if left to their own devices the weeds win hands down. So lets all hand in the towel and let nature take over a little.
Gardening is… human intervention
The sight of a beautifully manicured lawn and dazzling display of plants in a well-stocked border is a true sight to behold and this is all down to the tireless effort, skill and passion of the gardener controlling what grows where. We may think that having a garden or green space alone is enough for nature to thrive, but have you stopped to think of it from the point of view of wildlife? Gardening for wildlife is certainly more considered nowadays where planting for pollinators and attracting wildlife is key.
In the UK there are approx. 22 million gardens and three in five gardeners try to help wildlife by feeding birds and planting wildlife-friendly plants. However, we could all do a little more by allowing even just a small area to rewild and let nature do its thing.
Tips for going wild
- Let the grass grow – leave an area of grass to grow wild, scattering wildflower seeds can provide endless interest as different flowers spring to life at varying stages. Why not stick to mowing paths in your lawn and letting the rest go to meadow?
- Build homes for birds, bats, bees and other insects – wildlife boxes are readily available in many garden centres but can also be a great project for all the family to create. Put different nesting boxes and bug hotels up around your garden and watch it come to life.
- Add water – if you don’t have a pond then perhaps you have an old paddling pool, bird bath or disused sink. Water is a great attractant to all sorts of wildlife, including damson flies and aquatic insects. If you are creating something more substantial, then make sure there is a shallow end or large rocks for creatures to climb out on.
- Say no to chemicals – with plenty of wildlife-safe products on the market now, there are no need for pesticides, fungicides and herbicides. Natural solutions do work.
- Mess and decay – a rotting log, stack of dead branches and a pile of leaves might look like an eyesore to you but if you can designate a small space, you’ll be amazed what takes up residence.
- Plant a tree and native hedging – not only can trees create a focal point in the garden, and hedging a natural barrier, but they can provide a home, food and shelter from the elements for many birds and insects.
Spread the word and let’s all go wild this year!
