Winter jobs
Just because the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it doesn't mean that there's nothing to do in the garden. In fact, winter is the perfect time to take care of wildlife and get a head start on spring cleaning. Here are some things you can do to keep your garden thriving during the winter months.
Clean bird feeders: It's important to keep your bird feeders clean to avoid spreading disease amongst the bird population in your area. See my previous post on feeding the birds for more information on how to clean your bird feeder.
Empty and clean bird boxes: To reduce build-up of disease and kill any lurking parasites, take out any old bedding material, wash out with boiling water, and leave to dry.
Gather up fallen leaves from lawns and paths (but leave them on the flower beds and borders) and leave in a pile under hedges and shrubs to make a safe overwintering habitat for small mammals. Or turn them into leaf mold.
Mulch bare soil with homemade compost, mushroom compost, or well-rotted manure.
Chop and drop: If you have perennials that have gone floppy or unsightly, rather than cutting everything down and leaving bare soil, you can apply the 'Chop and Drop' method. Chop down woody or dried stems a bit at a time, letting the debris fall onto the ground. It will provide protection for the soil, habitat for creatures to overwinter, and will rot down to provide nutrients to the soil. It will soon be covered up by new growth in the spring.
Gather up stems and small branches and leave them in a pile in a sheltered corner of the garden to provide shelter for beetles and ladybirds.
Provide water: Water is an essential part of any wildlife garden, especially in winter when other sources of water may freeze over. So don't forget to keep water bowls topped up and free from ice. Or melt a hole at the edge of your pond using a hot saucepan.
Plant bare-root trees: Rowan, crabapple, and hawthorn are brilliant trees for wildlife.
By following these tips, you can create a winter oasis in your garden that will attract and support a variety of wildlife. Not only will you be helping creatures survive the colder months, but you'll also be getting a head start on spring cleaning and preparing your garden for the new season.
Get in touch if you are looking for wildlife-friendly garden maintenance.
Our bird box was pretty dirty which will put birds off from nesting in it and can spread disease. Looking much better after a good clean!
