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As summer fades and autumn approaches, it’s essential to prepare your garden to support local wildlife. September is the perfect time to make adjustments that will help birds, insects, and other creatures thrive during the colder months. Here are some practical tips to get your garden ready for autumn wildlife.
Provide Food Sources for Wildlife
Wildlife needs ample food to survive the autumn and winter. Planting native shrubs and trees such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and holly can offer berries and seeds. Additionally, leaving some of your summer flowers like asters and sedums in place provides nectar and pollen for late-season insects and pollinators.
You can also set up feeders for birds. Fill them with sunflower seeds, suet, and peanuts to support species like robins, finches, and woodpeckers. Remember to clean and refill feeders regularly to prevent disease.
Create Shelter and Nesting Opportunities
Providing shelter is vital for wildlife during colder months. Leave some leaf litter, logs, or brush piles in a quiet corner of your garden to serve as hiding spots and nesting sites for insects, amphibians, and small mammals.
Install bird boxes or check existing ones to ensure they are clean and in good condition. This encourages birds to use them for roosting and nesting in the coming months.
Plant for Future Growth and Food
September is an ideal time to plant native trees, shrubs, and perennial plants that will provide food and shelter in the future. Choose species that produce berries or seeds, such as rowan or elder, to support wildlife during winter.
Leave seed heads of plants like coneflowers and grasses intact, as they are valuable food sources for birds and insects during the colder months.
Maintain and Prepare Your Garden
Regularly clear fallen leaves from lawns and paths to prevent pests and diseases, but avoid removing all leaf litter from garden beds. Leaves provide essential insulation and food for many creatures.
Prepare your compost bin for autumn use by adding garden waste and kitchen scraps. Composting helps recycle nutrients and creates a natural fertilizer for your garden, supporting healthy plant growth that benefits local wildlife.
Encourage Wildlife with Water Sources
Providing a clean, unfrozen water source is crucial during autumn and winter. Consider installing a birdbath with a shallow basin. Change the water regularly to prevent the spread of disease and ensure wildlife has access to fresh drinking water.
In colder weather, adding a small heater or placing stones in the birdbath can prevent the water from freezing, keeping it accessible for birds and insects.
Conclusion
Preparing your garden for wildlife in September is a rewarding task that benefits local ecosystems and enhances your outdoor space. By providing food, shelter, water, and planting thoughtfully, you can support a diverse range of creatures as they prepare for the challenges of winter. Embrace these tips to create a wildlife-friendly garden that thrives year-round.