Nature in Autumn
Autumn is nature’s gentle handover — a season of change where the garden slows, seeds scatter, and wildlife begins preparing for the colder months ahead. With a few simple steps, you can turn your outdoor space into a safe haven for creatures great and small.
1. Leave a Little Wild
Resist the urge to tidy too much. Fallen leaves, seed heads, and decaying stems provide food and shelter for insects, hedgehogs, and small mammals. A messy corner can be a lifesaver for wildlife in winter.
2. Plant for the Season Ahead
Late-blooming plants such as ivy, sedum, and michaelmas daisy offer vital nectar for pollinators stocking up before hibernation. Plant spring bulbs now, so the garden bursts with early food for bees when the weather warms.
3. Provide Shelter
Pile logs, twigs, and leaves to create cosy hideaways for amphibians and insects. Bird boxes can be cleaned out ready for roosting and next year’s nesting season.
4. Keep the Water Flowing
As temperatures drop, water sources can freeze. Keep a shallow dish or pond clear of ice so birds and animals have access to fresh water.
5. Feed the Visitors
Supplement natural food with bird seed, fat balls, and mealworms to help wildlife through leaner months.
By preparing your garden with nature in mind, you’re not just helping wildlife survive the winter — you’re ensuring your garden remains full of life, ready to thrive again in spring.
