No matter the size of your outdoor space, there are numerous plants and shrubs available to enhance it and attract wildlife throughout the year.
For those aiming to entice beautiful creatures like butterflies and bees, certain plants are especially beneficial for your garden.
According to Ceri Thomas, the Editor of Which? Gardening, shrubs not only improve the aesthetics of your garden but also play a crucial role in drawing in and supporting wildlife, transforming your outdoor space into a natural sanctuary.
With a background in horticulture and extensive experience in editing gardening content, she has compiled a list of both native and non-native shrub varieties that can offer year-round support to your garden visitors.
Summer presents an excellent opportunity to witness nature in full bloom, and proactive steps can be taken to care for wildlife. Flowering plants attract small insects, serving as a vital food source for birds.
To further assist wildlife, consider replenishing bird feeders and providing fresh water for hydration. Here are some insights from the expert:
Described as “native to New Zealand” and a popular choice for gardens, Hebes are excellent for attracting various insects, including bees and hoverflies. Additionally, their evergreen foliage offers shelter for small birds year-round, requiring minimal maintenance with occasional trimming in late summer for tidiness.
During June and July, elders, commonly found in hedgerows along ditches and fields, produce bright flowers in early summer. These hardy shrubs are known for their wind-pollinated blossoms that yield berries, providing nourishment for birds in the following months.
Another recommended shrub is the Buddleja globosa, also known as the ‘orange ball tree,’ which is easier to manage compared to wild buddleia. This plant, dubbed ‘the butterfly bush,’ is ideal for attracting butterflies during the day and bees and moths at night. Pruning in March to encourage robust growth and abundant flowering is advised, with the orange variety requiring post-flowering pruning to protect bugs and wildlife during winter.
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