A garden does not need to become completely wild to provide useful habitat. Small changes can give insects, birds and other garden visitors more places to feed, shelter and breed.
Grow a mixture of plants
Flowers with different shapes and flowering periods provide food for a wider range of insects. Trees and shrubs add shelter and can provide berries, seeds and nesting places later in the year.
Leave some cover
Not every stem needs to be cut down in autumn. Hollow stems, seed heads and small areas of leaf litter can provide winter shelter. A less disturbed corner behind a shed or beneath a hedge can also be valuable.
Add water
Even a small source of water can attract wildlife. A pond is particularly useful, but a shallow container can also provide drinking water. Make sure animals have a safe way to get in and out.
Reduce unnecessary chemicals
Before using a pesticide, consider whether the problem needs treatment at all. Many insects are harmless or useful, and birds and predatory insects can help keep some pests under control.
Keep routes open
Hedges and connected planting allow animals to move through gardens more easily than continuous hard fencing. Where suitable, small gaps at ground level can help species such as hedgehogs travel between neighbouring gardens.
Wildlife-friendly gardening is often about doing a little less rather than adding complicated features. More plants, more shelter and fewer unnecessary disturbances can make a noticeable difference.