When fall arrives and the trees begin to shed their leaves, many of us automatically reach for the rake. The garden needs to be prepared for winter, withered plants removed, and fallen branches gathered into a pile. But what if we told you that one of the best things you can do for biodiversity in your garden is to leave it alone?
Because while we humans see withered leaves, fallen branches, and old flowers as things that need to be removed, nature sees something entirely different: packed lunches, winter comforters, and small apartments with a view of the garden.
Autumn isn't the end of life in the garden. It's the beginning of an important time for the garden's tiny inhabitants, who need to find food, shelter, and a place to spend the winter.
Here are three simple tips on how you can help nature get through the cold months.
Leave the leaves where they are
The golden leaves that fall from the trees are much more than just autumn decorations. Instead of removing all the leaves, you can leave them in flower beds, under shrubs, or in a quiet corner of the garden. They can provide shelter and winter habitats for small animals. At the same time, the leaves slowly decompose and add nutrients to the soil.
Leave the brush where it is
A pile of branches and twigs might not win a beauty contest, but for the garden’s tiny inhabitants, it can be a veritable luxury hotel. Twigs and branches don’t have to end up as yard waste. A small pile of brush actually serves as a hiding place and habitat for insects, fungi, and other small creatures.
Leave some of the fruit for nature's visitors
Before you pick up all your fallen fruit, consider leaving some behind. The fruit is an important source of energy for many insects, including butterflies like the red admiral, which seek out sweet treats in late summer and fall. Of course, you don’t have to let your entire garden turn into an orchard, but leaving a little for nature’s guests can make a difference.
Sources, professional inspiration, and further reading:
- Photos by Colin Varndell/Alamy, Drazen Nesic, and KajsNatur.
- The Danish Society for Nature Conservation (n.d.). 12 natural elements that make your garden wilder. Danish Society for Nature Conservation. Read the article here
