The gardens of Essex can help to safeguard biodiversity by acting as nature reserves. There are estimated to be 15 million gardens in the UK, covering about 270,000 hectares – a vast area of land and potentially of enormous value to biodiversity.
Together all these gardens, small and large, form a patchwork of habitats for wildlife. You can contribute to preserving biodiversity by making a few small changes, such as encouraging a wild area with weeds and dead wood to provide a food source and suitable habitats for invertebrates or by putting in a wildlife-friendly pond.
For other ideas see the Wildlife Trusts website feature Wild About Gardens and Natural England website Nature in the Garden.
A new leaflet is now available from RHS Hyde Hall - The Garden for Wildlife. This includes tips on which plants to include and how to make your garden attractive for wildlife. Click here to download the leaflet.