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.
Southampton City Council
