Here's the latest blog from Louise, our wildlife garden volunteer
The birds are singing, the first flowers are out and you're thinking of putting that winter coat away. Yes spring is here and isn't it marvellous! I've been busy in the wildlife garden planting some new plants that will hopefully attract all those wonderful pollinators. If you're doing the same, try to make sure you plant things that provide pollen and nectar throughout the year. Most plants flower through the summer but good early choices are Hellebores, Pulmonaria and Aubrietia, with Asters and Sedums blooming in the autumn. It's also important to have a variety of flower shapes, some insects prefer and/or are adapted to flat topped flowers such as Achillea whereas others need tubular blooms such as foxgloves. Try also to plant in groups as they are easier for pollinators to locate and they don't have to travel as far between plants. Finally, purple and yellow flowers tend to be best.
(Image by Andy Hay rspb-images.com)
We've also planted a herb garden, including amongst others, thyme, marjoram, chives and rosemary - great for wildlife and us and easy to grow so it's win win really. In future blogs I'll be giving some tips on uses for some of these. Just a quick note about mints, they are great but can be a bit invasive so best planted in pots.
Now, a few words about something that strikes fear into the heart of all gardeners - especially now with all the young and developing plants - yes it's those pesky slugs! Now I know I'm on a bit of a hiding to nothing here but bear with me as believe it or not. they do have a couple of redeeming qualities. Firstly, they are an important food source for many creatures including birds, amphibians and hedgehogs. They also play a role in processing decaying matter and therefore improving the soil. Still not sold? ok, then here's some tips on controlling them in your garden without resorting to nasty chemicals or beer traps (which surely is just a waste of good beer?) So, first off, slugs needs moisture, therefore water up in the morning instead of the evening when they are active. Secondly, they cannot move over rough, dry surfaces so surround your vulnerable plants with things like eggshells, gravel and even dog hair. There are also plants that they don't seem to like, eg lavender, sedums and astrantias - all of which are great for pollinators. Finally though, remember nature is a balance and everything has it's place so it's really best to just try work with what we've got.
Anyway, I'll sign off now but would love to see you down at RSPB Fairburn Ings and I am always happy to answer any questions about gardening for wildlife. The reserve is so lovely at the moment, birds are busily nesting, celandines and daffodils are out and there's that wonderful sense of renewal and the hope of warmer weather to come that only spring brings. Come and see for yourself.
Louise