Protect Wildlife

The products you use and the way you manage your garden can create a haven for wildlife.

• Avoid using a hose whenever possible - use a watering can for the garden and buckets of water for washing the car to reduce water consumption

• Try to water plants at sunset, rather than in the heat of the day - this will enable the water to soak through to the roots, rather than simply evaporate

• Let your grass grow a little longer - it will require less water and attracts wildlife. Visit the Hampshire Wildlife Trust website

• Don't burn rubbish - this can produce toxic chemicals, as well as releasing carbon dioxide which contributes to climate change

• Don't use chemicals in the garden - use organic and environmentally friendly products in the garden to reduce pollution and is better for wildlife

• Gardening for Wildlife - make your garden wildlife friendly by putting up nest boxes, building a pond and planting a wide range of native flowers and plants

• Start a compost heap, bin or wormery to recycle organic waste including garden and food waste. Composting your organic waste not only provides you with a valuable soil improver for your garden, but it also helps reduce the amount of organic waste you might send to landfill each week. 30% of the household waste we produce can be composted.