I've seen a growing number of people fill their gardens with tiles and thus removing all the plants and flowers from their gardens. This may seem like a harmless garden revamp, but let's consider the impacts of these actions.
Biodiversity is the variety of plants and animals in a certain area. For a resilient ecosystem, diversity is critical, as the variations ensure that if one part of the ecosystem is lacking, another part can support it. When there is little variation, ecosystems become very fragile.
We can start taking actions in our own yards and balconies. Grass or tiles may look appealing, but they offer very little to an ecosystem. A more herbaceous garden may be a bit more work to upkeep, but the outcome looks stunning and is supportive for the environment. So, what changes can you make in your garden to help?
Research
An important first step is to do some research. Native species are your best option, as they offer support to the already existing ecosystem in your area. They will also prevent the introduction of an invasive species which will disrupt the ecosystem rather than aid it. A good place to start is a simple google search about the climate/area you live in. Another option is heading to a local garden centre and talking to someone there about appropriate native species.
Seasonal Variation
If you live in a seasonal climate, it is a good idea to consider winter-hardy plants. It is important to choose plants which can survive the winter and return in spring. It is also good to consider perennials, as they return each year. Annuals and biennials are not bad, but you need to do more work each year introducing new plants. In the dreary winter, your garden may start looking quite sad. So, why not introduce some form of evergreen? There are many evergreen plants, and a bonus is if it includes berries. These berries can be essential for birds in you area, and further increase the biodiversity in your garden.
Insects
Biodiversity is not only herbaceous in nature. Insects are also an essential player. By introducing a variation of plants to you garden, you already increase the appeal to many insects, including bees and butterflies. You can also select specific plants to cater to your local critters. There are also options such as insect hotels and bee watering bowls. Check out some of our other articles for fun crafts relating to this and ideal insect plants.
Other Wildlife
Like previously mentioned, you can make your garden appealing to birds by having berry plants, especially those with winter berries. Introducing birdhouses and shelters is also bound to draw more birds to your garden. Wildlife is greatly dependent on where you live, so researching your area is always a good idea. If you have hedgehogs in your area, you can help them in the autumn months. You can buy or make little hedgehog shelters for in your garden. These offer hedgehogs shelter when they are searching for food in preparation of their hibernation. If you notice any very small hedgehogs or wounded hedgehogs, see if there is a hedgehog shelter you can call, and they may give advice on how to help. There are countless forms of garden wildlife, but this varies greatly per region, so independent research may be helpful.
Pests
Naturally, when introducing biodiverse elements to your garden, you may receive some unwelcome guests. Plants may get insects which are harmful to them. For these plants find what pesticide options you have. It is best to opt for natural solutions, to prevent spoiling the soil of poisoning other insects. Introducing bird houses and feeders may lead to field mice. There is no need to be alarmed, as they are easily dealt with. You can use mouse friendly traps. They simply capture the mice and don't kill them. You can then bring the trap, with the detained mouse in it, a ways away from your garden and set it free. In this manner you can prevent unwanted guests in your garden, without doing any harm.
Balconies
But what about balconies? Many of these approaches may seem limited to the garden. But really there's no reason they should be. You can introduce planters to you balcony which house a range of plants. You may also be able to add bird feeders or houses, or insect hotels. If anything, plants can add a wonderful atmosphere to a balcony.
Gardens can add so much to the biodiversity of an area. Along with that, they offer a fun hobby and a creative outlet. It isn't guaranteed to be easy straight away, but it is definitely worth the effort. Biodiversity is an important building block to ecosystems and your garden can be your individual contribution do diversifying ecosystems.
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