Your Garden
Your garden — whether it’s a large lawn, a few pots on a balcony, or a shared community space — can play a vital role in protecting biodiversity and tackling climate change. Urban gardens support around 75% of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making them essential habitats for wildlife.
By making simple, nature-friendly choices in your outdoor space, you can help wildlife thrive while creating a more sustainable and beautiful environment close to home.
Help Pollinators Thrive
Bees are essential to the health of our ecosystems, but many species are in decline. Even a few small changes in your garden can make a big difference.
Learn about the 270 species of bees in the UK and how you can help monitor and support them by visiting The Great British Bee Count | Friends of the Earth.
Learn how to attract pollinators with colourful, nectar-rich plants that are easy to grow and great for biodiversity by visiting Gardening for Bees | Friends of the Earth.
Make Your Garden a Wildlife Haven
Create a space where birds, insects, and small mammals feel at home. These fun, hands-on activities are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
- Build a Bug Hotel
Reuse natural materials to provide shelter for insects and mini-beasts using the guide: Build a Bug Hotel | The RSPB
- Make a Bird Bath
A simple way to help birds stay hydrated, especially in warmer months using the guide: Make a Bird Bath - BBC Gardeners World Magazine.
- Attract Birds to Your Garden
Practical tips for feeding and sheltering birds throughout the year. Check out this link: Attract Birds to Your Garden | BBC Gardeners World Magazine
- Install a Water Butt
Collect rainwater to reduce water use in your garden and keep plants healthy during dry spells. For more information, visit Waterwise Gardening: Installing a Water Butt
Gardening for Nature and Sustainability
Take small steps to make your garden both productive and planet-friendly.
- How to Grow Potatoes in a Pot
A low-maintenance way to grow your own food and cut your carbon footprint – all you need is a pot, compost and seed potatoes. Have a look here: How to Grow Potatoes in a Pot
- How to Clean and Maintain Hand Tools
Keep your gardening tools in top condition to extend their lifespan and reduce waste. Have a look here: Cleaning hand tools / RHS Gardening.
Get Inspired and Learn More
- Wildlife Gardening
Download expert advice and tips to transform your garden into a wildlife sanctuary using this guide: 'Wildlife Trusts' Guide to Wildlife Gardening.
- Wildlife Gardening Award
Celebrate your efforts to support biodiversity by applying for this recognition. You can apply for the wildlife garden award by visiting the Devon Wildlife Trust
- Improving Green Spaces for Wildlife – East Devon District Council
Learn what East Devon is doing to support biodiversity and how you can get involved locally. For more information on how we are Improving Green Spaces for Wildlife ,check out this link!
Fun for the Whole Family
Gardening is a great way to connect with nature, especially for children. Keep them entertained and inspired with these creative, nature-themed projects.
- Wild East Devon Education Ranger Videos
Discover fun outdoor activities designed for families, from wildlife spotting to eco-friendly crafts. Check out these great videos created by our Wild East Devon education rangers who have loads of ideas and projects to keep the family entertained in the garden this year.