Bees are remarkable flying insects found on every continent except Antarctica. Closely related to wasps and ants these widespread insects include an amazing 16,000 species worldwide.
Bees are probably most famous for their importance in pollination and this cannot be underestimated. Bees actually pollinate 40% of the food we eat along with countless wild plants and trees. In the UK alone without the presence of bees the lack of pollination would cost farmers over 1.8 billion a year. Sometimes humans assume we are separate from the wider, global food chain and the ecology of the planet. However our ability to maintain our current dominance over nature is on borrowed time. Bee species have plummeted both locally and globally with a large percentage in danger of extinction. As high bee populations are a direct indicator of healthy environments the trends are truly worrying. 
The good thing is bee friendly gardens now provide an oasis for these remarkable and vital insects. It is not actually very difficult to make your garden a haven for bees. If you want to make your garden more bee friendly there are a few things you can do.
This includes planning your garden correctly, providing food, water, shelter and including suitable habitat. Not all bees are the same; some are solitary, some social and some nest under the ground. Therefore you must cater for a broad spectrum of bee types to create the perfect garden environment. Types of garden bee
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What you will need
Concrete dye
Traditionally sold in powder form in 1 kg cylinders these are available from most builder’s merchants or hardware suppliers. You will need around 1kg per 20metres squared of patio depending on how porous the surface is.
Cement
For lighter applications use white cement such as Snowcrete. Regular cement however is more than sufficient and is used in the example images below. Typically you will need 2kg of powdered cement for every 20metres squared of paving.
5 gallon bucket
For mixing
Pointing trowel
For mixing
Heavy duty paint brush
For application
Dust mask
To prevent the inhalation of dust
Water proof gloves
To prevent concrete burns and staining to skin
Step 1: Preparation
Make sure the surface of your patio has been cleaned as described above with a pressure washer or brush cleaned. The surface of the concrete must be dry and able to absorb the wet, dye mix thoroughly. Consequently application should be carried out during the summer months. Application should take place just before night time so curing takes place slowly during cooler, night temperatures.
Step 2: Mixing
Firstly apply the dust mask so it makes a tight seal with your face, also apply your safety gloves. Mix the cement powder with the dye powder well in the gallon bucket. For a 20 square metre patio you will need 2 kg of cement powder to 1 kg of dye powder. Slowly apply water and mix thoroughly until the mix forms a single, cream like consistency.
Step 3: Application
Using the paint brush, brush the creamy mixture over the patios surface until it is stained. Keep working in the mixture so it has a consistent viscosity as over time the bottom may thicken. Keep going mixing more where necessary until the whole patio is covered.
Step4: Curing
Preferably the paving will be left to cure overnight away from direct sunlight. The paving should not be walked on if at all possible. The patio should be left to cure for no less than 24 hours.
Step 5: Washing
After 24 hours the patio can be given a thorough wash. This is to clean off any remaining residue from the staining mix. The result should be a beautifully revamped patio with a new bright colour tone.
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After
How to revamp a natural stone patio
Natural stone is generally easier to revamp if it is merely suffering with the effects of age. Staining from cements and other chemicals is a whole other subject matter. As natural stone paving is made up fully of its own materials its colours do not fade like concrete. Typically a robust pressure wash and clean is 'usually' all that is required to revamp them.
Natural stone is generally easier to revamp if it is merely suffering with the effects of age. Staining from cements and other chemicals is a whole other subject matter. As natural stone paving is made up fully of its own materials its colours do not fade like concrete. Typically a robust pressure wash and clean is 'usually' all that is required to revamp them.
Pressure washing
As with concrete paving simply pressure wash the surface well with a high pressure, pressure washer. This is usually enough to blast out any staining, discolouration or absorbed dirt. Heavy duty pressure washers are available to rent from most tool, rental stores.
Brush cleaning
As with concrete, brushing in household detergents is usually enough to clean off oils and greases from natural paving. For deeper biological stains a squirt of bleach can also be effective. Before using any cleaning detergents and especially bleach make sure you trial a small area first.
Do this in an inconspicuous part of the patio to make sure it does not react with the material. Patio cleaners containing strong acids should also be avoided especially with sandstones and black limestones. These can cause chemical reactions and severe discolouration. Most of the time a good brush clean with suitable patio cleaners is enough to revamp natural paving.
Polishing
This is a process where hard surfaces, typically concrete are polished with a series of abrasive pads. These pads, usually textured with granite or diamond particles grind down the existing surface.
The polishing pads come in grades which can smooth concrete and stone to a smooth, glass like finish. Generally this method is not optimum for patios as it can make an external surface slippery. Also the heavy duty polishing machines can flip loose paving and not access tight corners. Polishing is generally a more common treatment for in-situ concrete than paving.
Sand blasting
Sandblasting also known as abrasive blasting and is the process of blasting sand at high pressure onto surfaces. This abrasive action can be used to smooth rough stone or erode top layers of stone and concrete. Such blasting can lead to a desirable, egg shell, textured surface especially in natural stone. Blasting can revamp patios but due to its cost only worth doing on well laid, good quality, materials.
Jointing
Most of the time revamping a patio will also involve re-jointing. Jointing or pointing is the most common defect with patios. This is typically due to the fact the jointing has been done incorrectly. Jointing will also fail if the paving has been incorrectly laid or the wrong materials used. Jointing is prone to freeze and thaw action as well as dissolving in acid rain over time.
How to re-joint a patio
If a part of your patio revamp also requires re-jointing then this is what you must do:
Remove all existing pointing from the patio, this can be done by cutting them out with a grinder or hammer and bolster.
Check none of the paving slabs move when walked upon if they do they will need to be relayed on a ‘consistent 1:4 wet mortar mix bed’. This will then need to be left to cure for 24hours. It is then essential to remove any fine dust or debris from the jointing gaps. This can be done with a heavy duty blower or pressure jet.
You need to wait for a dry day with ‘no rain in the forecast for 12 hours after the completed jointing. All paving and gaps must be bone dry before starting. With a bucket measure out a 3:1 jointing mix with one part cement and 3 parts plastering or Leighton Buzzard sand. Mix this dry until you reach a consistent colour. In a bucket mix water with some kind of mortar sealant, you can also use PVA.
Slowly add small amounts of the water to the dry mortar and mix it in. Be cautious here, if you put in too much water you will ruin the mix! The mix must be damp just enough to get a sealed finish but dry enough it does not smudge on the paving.
This is an art in its own right and you must take your time. Work the mix until it has a loose, granary, brown sugar like consistency. Using a pointing trowel scoop the mixture into the gaps and compact it with the edge of the trowel.
Make sure it is well compact particularly in the corners of the paving, using a jointing iron or hose pipe push down onto the mix and along the joint to make a neat, sealed finish. Brush excess mortar away and into the open gaps that are yet to be jointed. It is very important a very soft bristled hand brush is used here; (Large paint brush) otherwise you will brush lines in the jointing.
Repeat the process until the whole patio is complete. Because this is a strong mix it may start to dry out after a couple of hours. Consequently you can flick small amounts of water into the mortar as you go and remix it thoroughly.
Make sure it is well compact particularly in the corners of the paving, using a jointing iron or hose pipe push down onto the mix and along the joint to make a neat, sealed finish. Brush excess mortar away and into the open gaps that are yet to be jointed. It is very important a very soft bristled hand brush is used here; (Large paint brush) otherwise you will brush lines in the jointing.
Repeat the process until the whole patio is complete. Because this is a strong mix it may start to dry out after a couple of hours. Consequently you can flick small amounts of water into the mortar as you go and remix it thoroughly.
Sealing a patio
Sealing involves applying a thin layer of an impervious substances to prevent water contacting and seeping into the subject. In this case patio sealers are generally made from chemicals which seep into the paving’s surface. This creates a waterproof layer which prevents penetrating damp and staining.
When revamping a patio using any methods described in this article it is a good idea to apply a sealant. This helps to preserve the patios, new, clean state and prevents it degrading further in the future.
There are plenty of good quality sealants on the market and some are now material specific, some of these have colour enhancing qualities.
Some natural stone paving such as sandstone actually looks better when it is damp. Some sealants are formulated to replicate dampness therefore improving its overall appearance.
To seal a patio firstly you must make sure your patio is clean of all debris and dust. On a warm, dry, day simply apply the sealant using either a large paintbrush or roller. Sealing is the best way to finalise your patio so it looks good for years to come.
Some natural stone paving such as sandstone actually looks better when it is damp. Some sealants are formulated to replicate dampness therefore improving its overall appearance.
To seal a patio firstly you must make sure your patio is clean of all debris and dust. On a warm, dry, day simply apply the sealant using either a large paintbrush or roller. Sealing is the best way to finalise your patio so it looks good for years to come.
If you need assistance in relaying or re-vamping a patio please do not hesitate to contact us.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Hedgehogs are small woodland mammals famous for their spiky backs and ability to roll into a ball to avoid predators. These charismatic creatures are nocturnal spending most nights patrolling their territory feeding. Feeding on pest species such as slugs, snails, and insects hedgehogs are a welcome guest in our gardens.
However in the past 50 years, hedgehog numbers have crashed by somewhere in the region of 80%. These dramatic and depressing figures are due to a number of human induced factors. Minimalistic landscaping, pesticide usage, habitat loss, road fatalities, power tool injuries, lack of nest sites, aggressive pets, reduced access and reduced water sources are all to blame for this.
However in the past 50 years, hedgehog numbers have crashed by somewhere in the region of 80%. These dramatic and depressing figures are due to a number of human induced factors. Minimalistic landscaping, pesticide usage, habitat loss, road fatalities, power tool injuries, lack of nest sites, aggressive pets, reduced access and reduced water sources are all to blame for this.
Hedgehogs have an extremely important role in our gardens providing much needed ecological pest control. Traditionally a mammal which inhabited woodlands, gardens used to provide havens for this species. However gardens have become hazardous places to be, extensive lawns, pesticides, power tools and less untidy spaces to hide.
If you want to make your garden more hedgehog friendly you have come to the right place! With some very simple installations and more intensive landscaping you can make your backyard a hedgehog paradise forever more!
If you want to make your garden more hedgehog friendly you have come to the right place! With some very simple installations and more intensive landscaping you can make your backyard a hedgehog paradise forever more!
1. Grow more plants
One of the biggest problems for hedgehogs in modern gardens is a lack of cover. Generally people today have less, spare time available to practice gardening duties. Busy work schedules and digital forms of entertainment have led to the ‘low maintenance age’.
Gardens have become laden with artificial lawns and paved surfaces leading to a reduction in hedgehog habitat. Hedgehogs need shelter and security in a garden with places to rest and forage for food.
The best way to start growing more plants is to create a garden border. Hedgehogs prefer dense and low growing vegetation so small shrubs are best. Try to grow native plants where you can and avoid plants with poisonous berries.
2. Provide a hedgehog home
In natural environments such as woodland hedgehogs can nest in small burrows, dense vegetation or the hollows of fallen trees.
Gardens have the added threat of aggressive pets such as dogs and cats so robust sheltering sites are essential. Nesting boxes are a perfect way to do this and ensure hedgehogs have suitable locations to safely rear their young.
The best way you can do this is to construct a solid, nesting box with concrete or brickwork. These can be integrated into landscape features such as walls or made to look like natural burrows.
However one of the most effective ways to provide a hedgehog home is to buy one pre-made. These come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and materials.
3. Create feeding stations
One of a hedgehog’s major challenges is food availability. In natural environments hedgehogs typically eat worms, insects, slugs and snails. However with gardens containing less and less of these hedgehogs can find it difficult to feed.
A good way to combat this is by creating a hedgehog, feeding station. This can simply be an upturned box or specific location you leave out food. Try to locate your feeding station somewhere hedgehogs do not need to break cover to get to. The idea is to create an accessible and safe location for them to feed.
Hedgehogs particularly like dog or cat food but stay away from fish. Chicken is best with jelly being better than gravy. Cat and dog biscuits are ok and there is now specialised hedgehog food you can purchase from wildlife suppliers.
Do not give them milk as hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and it can upset a hedgehog’s digestive system.
4. Provide safe access
In order to forage enough food and locate others, hedgehogs need room and access to roam. Remarkably hedgehog territories can be as much as 20 square hectares as they can roam up to 2 kilometres in a single night.
That’s a staggering distance which becomes extremely prohibited by walls and garden fences. It is therefore imperative for access to be given to hedgehogs either through or under these boundaries. Cut a hole 130mm in diameter at the bottom of your fence or leave out one slat.
Make sure your provide access to each garden boundary and persuade your neighbours to do the same. These access points will also benefit other local ecology within the local area.
5. Provide clean drinking water
Like all other forms of wildlife, fresh, clean and regular drinking water is essential. This will certainly make your garden more wildlife friendly especially in the dry summer months. Try to fill generous containers that will not easy be blown away easily with water.
Try not to use anything a hedgehog can become stuck inside. Once you have started providing drinking water make sure you keep it up. Hedgehogs have a mental map of all drinking spots in their territory and will come to rely upon them.
6. Make hibernacula’s
Hedgehogs need to hibernate for the winter and to do so require warm and sheltered places. In order to keep hedgehogs protected from the cold these need to be dry and sheltered with lots of soft bedding.
One of the most common causes for hedgehogs being killed is leaf piles being cleared and bonfires being lit. Bonfire piles are perfect places for hedgehogs to create a hibernation den. If you do have to start a fire keep you’re burning materials in a separate location, this way hedgehogs can escape when you start constructing the bonfire.
The best thing you can do to make your garden hedgehog friendly is to build a hibernacula. These are dense piles of brush and organic material deliberately constructed for hibernating hedgehogs. Try to make the bottom cosy with plenty of large gaps and bedding material. The top can be layered with branches, twigs and even garden soil.
7. Replace lawns with meadow
Before the days of petrol lawn mowers and commercial livestock feeds many landscapes were managed as wild meadows. These were kept to provide winter bedding and feed for grazing animals during the winter. These long, dense, grasslands were rich in wild plants and insects.
This made them perfect habitats for small mammals such as hedgehogs. One of the ways you could consider making your garden more hedgehog friendly is to create a wildflower meadow. Even by just leaving one part of your lawn to grow wild can be a massive benefit.
To create a meadow from existing lawn plant plug wildflowers, seed with a wild meadow seed or lay meadow turf.
8. Don’t use chemicals
A big problem with gardeners today is they readily use chemicals to get rid of things they don’t like. Herbicides, and insecticides may get rid of unwanted weeds and pests but they also poison the environment.
Even if these chemicals don’t kill smaller creatures outright they are consequently eaten by larger predators like hedgehogs. This can lead to poisoning and even death. By far the biggest chemical threat to hedgehogs is slug pellets. These common and readily available pellets are ingested by slugs and snails poisoning them. The result is dying slugs left in the open where hedgehogs feed on them.
This can result in poisoned hedgehogs which can easily become fatal. If you want to make your garden attractive to hedgehogs all chemicals should be avoided and slug pellets in particular should be out of bounds.
9. Boost local ecology
When trying to encourage any one species of wildlife it is important to know all life is a part of an ecosystem. The rich and more diverse your garden is the better for all forms of wildlife. Hedgehogs in particular need gardens rich in grubs, insects, beetles, slugs and worms.
These favourite foods will only be available in number if your garden has good, varied habitats. To increase ecology and wildlife habitats encourage natural decay, native plants and places for wildlife to shelter.
To boost soil ecology try to mix in plenty of organic matter to your borders. This will not only boost soil ecology it will also help to grow healthier plants. With larger numbers of prey species and rich habitats hedgehogs will soon be visiting your garden regularly.
10. Build a wildlife pond
There is probably nothing better you can do for hedgehogs than create a wildlife pond. This is really because a wildlife pond can provide such a boost to local ecology. Wildlife ponds can provide drinking water for hedgehogs but also encourage a whole range of new prey species.
Many aquatic insects visit ponds to lay their eggs and complete their lifecycles. This means they have a lure for small creatures within the local food chain. These can become an extra food source for hungry, foraging, hedgehogs. Always make sure your pond has sloping slides so hedgehogs and other wildlife can escape if they fall in.
11. Remove hazards
Hedgehogs can find themselves in a great deal of danger as most gardens contain significant hazards to them. If you want to attract hedgehogs into your garden you will have to minimise these as much as possible.
Before using power tools such as brush cutters and mowers make sure you check for resting hedgehogs. Similarly try to put sharp tools in a safe and secure place to stop them cutting themselves.
Hedgehogs are naturally wired to explore dark hollows. This makes them particularly liable to falling into deep holes and getting stuck in pipes. Make sure you repair broken manholes and cover over exposed pipes with gauze. Also cover over any ongoing excavation work or trenches.
Even if your garden is generally free of litter keep an eye open for stray litter and especially plastic. During windy weather or the day after a family gathering it is easy for litter to escape into the garden. With the added allure of the smell of food hedgehogs can easily become trapped or choke.
12. Build a compost heap
Compost heaps are a great way to recycle garden materials and produce organic compost. They are also great ways to attract hedgehogs to your garden.
Decomposing plant material within composters can become a hive of activity for worms, slugs and insect life. All three of these are also some of the hedgehog’s most favourite foods. Try to compost in open heaps instead of plastic bins.
This will enable hedgehogs to forage through the material seeking out prey. Larger more permanent composting heaps with woodier materials can even become warm places for hedgehogs to hibernate.
To encourage hedgehogs into your garden you will need to provide; access, food, shelter, water, and a healthy, garden ecosystem. By creating wildlife habitats such as log piles, meadows and dense vegetation they will have somewhere to feed, hibernate and raise their young.
If you require landscaping services or want to create a wildlife garden for hedgehogs feel free to contact us. We cover Buckinghamshire as well as the broader Chiltern area. We also cover Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire Bedfordshire as well as London.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Of all the creatures to grace our gardens birds have a charm which seems to be contagiously universal. Birds have the ability to bring atmosphere to a space with their singing evoking feelings of serenity and happiness. A vibrant bird population is an indicator of a healthy environment and one that is highly favoured.
Every year we spend millions on attracting birds to our gardens by feeding them and providing sanctuary. Their ability to fly and cover large distances means we can easily encourage them to feed in specific locations. This is an extremely beneficial way to bring the magic of nature into towns or for the less mobile.
Birds have the ability to thrill and excite us but they are also great at reducing garden pests.
Every year we spend millions on attracting birds to our gardens by feeding them and providing sanctuary. Their ability to fly and cover large distances means we can easily encourage them to feed in specific locations. This is an extremely beneficial way to bring the magic of nature into towns or for the less mobile.
Birds have the ability to thrill and excite us but they are also great at reducing garden pests.
However, every year for decades has seen consistent declines in wild bird numbers. Unfortunately this trend has continued to accelerate leading to an uncertain future. Large commercial, agriculture practices combined with over development and habitat loss all take the blame for this.
The good thing is our gardens continue to provide an invaluable source of food and shelter during these ecologically turbulent times. The dense patchwork of garden habitats have given birds the perfect places to feed, rest and in some cases reproduce.
With gardens being so important for modern birds the question is, How to make your garden more bird friendly? In this article I will describe all the things you can do to make your garden as preferential for wild birds as possible.
The good thing is our gardens continue to provide an invaluable source of food and shelter during these ecologically turbulent times. The dense patchwork of garden habitats have given birds the perfect places to feed, rest and in some cases reproduce.
With gardens being so important for modern birds the question is, How to make your garden more bird friendly? In this article I will describe all the things you can do to make your garden as preferential for wild birds as possible.
Provide a water source
One of the most important things you can do to help your garden birds is to provide water. Not only is clean water essential for them to drink it is also vital for washing. Birds bathe in water to keep their feathers in perfect condition to fly and keep themselves warm.
Water can be provided with a bird bath, a pond or simply in a large vessel. It is however important to point out that birds are at their most vulnerable to predators when bathing. Therefore it is best to purchase a raised bird bath or hanging bird bath which can easily be filled up regularly.
Water can be provided with a bird bath, a pond or simply in a large vessel. It is however important to point out that birds are at their most vulnerable to predators when bathing. Therefore it is best to purchase a raised bird bath or hanging bird bath which can easily be filled up regularly.
Provide bird feeders
One of the best ways to make your garden more bird friendly is to provide bird feeders. These are particularly important during the winter months when natural food sources are scarce. Bird feeders come in a wide variety of types, shapes and sizes. Some of these are better for certain species so providing variety is always a good idea.
Larger, wire net feeders are perfect for larger beaks and filled typically with peanuts. Dispenser feeders are ideal for loose seeds and benefit smaller birds, Fat balls are also a rich food source for smaller birds during the winter months.
If you want to encourage larger birds perhaps a high up feeding table or platform is a good option. However these can attract vermin and can easily be raided by squirrels. If you have problems with squirrels on your feeders read my article on how to get rid of squirrels here.
Larger, wire net feeders are perfect for larger beaks and filled typically with peanuts. Dispenser feeders are ideal for loose seeds and benefit smaller birds, Fat balls are also a rich food source for smaller birds during the winter months.
If you want to encourage larger birds perhaps a high up feeding table or platform is a good option. However these can attract vermin and can easily be raided by squirrels. If you have problems with squirrels on your feeders read my article on how to get rid of squirrels here.
Do hard wood cutting in autumn
If you want to encourage birds to feed, shelter and nest in your garden you must disturb them as less as possible. Every spring and summer thousands of nest sites are either disturbed or destroyed during hedge cutting and garden clearances.
This can lead to the loss of a whole seasons generation of young birds! If you do need to carry out hard wood cutting it is best left until autumn when young birds have flown the nest.
This can lead to the loss of a whole seasons generation of young birds! If you do need to carry out hard wood cutting it is best left until autumn when young birds have flown the nest.
Provide diverse wildlife habitat
Birds just like any other wildlife are connected through a diverse food web or ecosystem. As humans we sometimes we like to pick and choose what wildlife we want. This is not really how nature works and in order to encourage more birds we must accept to open our gardens to all wildlife.
By providing as many different diverse habitats as possible you will encourage other species which birds feed upon. By allowing our gardens to grow wilder we provide more opportunities for birds to feed, nest and hide from predators.
By providing as many different diverse habitats as possible you will encourage other species which birds feed upon. By allowing our gardens to grow wilder we provide more opportunities for birds to feed, nest and hide from predators.
Provide nest building materials
Birds are expert nest builders! If you have ever found an old birds nest you can appreciate just what intricate and amazing structures there are. Commonly made up of fine twigs, feathers, grasses, soil and sometimes fabric bird nests are nature’s duvets.
The materials are painstakingly woven into a tight cup like structure providing a warm, snug compartment for incubation. The problem with most gardens is they are too tidy! Make sure you have plenty of organic debris around your garden so birds can find the materials they need to make good nests.
Large grasses such pampas grass has perfect fluffy seeds to create warm bedding for chicks. Trees with long, thin and flexible stems such as birch are perfect for weaving a nests outer shell. Alternatively you can rake up moss from your lawn or leave out old pieces of wool. You can also buy fabric balls specifically made to provide birds with nesting materials.
The materials are painstakingly woven into a tight cup like structure providing a warm, snug compartment for incubation. The problem with most gardens is they are too tidy! Make sure you have plenty of organic debris around your garden so birds can find the materials they need to make good nests.
Large grasses such pampas grass has perfect fluffy seeds to create warm bedding for chicks. Trees with long, thin and flexible stems such as birch are perfect for weaving a nests outer shell. Alternatively you can rake up moss from your lawn or leave out old pieces of wool. You can also buy fabric balls specifically made to provide birds with nesting materials.
Install nest boxes
A lack of suitable nest sites is one of the main reasons for dramatic reductions in our bird populations. Historically birds would use hollow cavities in old trees or build nests in dense sheltered thickets such as hedgerows.
Both of these have become increasingly rare in the past 100 years, hence nest boxes can become vital nesting sites. There are a variety of these on the market varying in size and material. Some bird species require a specific sized hole while others require a specific height from the ground.
Therefore it is important to do your research before mounting a specific nesting box. If you are feeling adventurous there are now live camera systems which can film the birds feeding their young.
Both of these have become increasingly rare in the past 100 years, hence nest boxes can become vital nesting sites. There are a variety of these on the market varying in size and material. Some bird species require a specific sized hole while others require a specific height from the ground.
Therefore it is important to do your research before mounting a specific nesting box. If you are feeling adventurous there are now live camera systems which can film the birds feeding their young.
Become a bird watcher
Bird watching is a thrilling and even addictive past time which indirectly will encourage birds to your garden. The more you learn to identify local birds and increase your knowledge the more likely you are keep feeders topped up and create more habitats.
You can never predict when a new species will occupy your garden or just visit seasonally. There are literally hundreds of species of birds which could visit your garden. The more you encourage them the more chance you have of being able to both spot them and identify them.
You can never predict when a new species will occupy your garden or just visit seasonally. There are literally hundreds of species of birds which could visit your garden. The more you encourage them the more chance you have of being able to both spot them and identify them.
Plant more trees and shrubs
Birds by their very nature like to perch up high in dense vegetation. This helps them to stay up and out of the way of ground dwelling predators and camouflaged from areal predators.
Therefore the more trees and shrubs you have in your garden the better. Some birds like the wren appreciate low hedges which are densely vegetated while some prefer to perch higher up.
By providing a diverse variety of trees and shrubs the wider the range of bird species you will attract. If planting trees make sure they will not grow too big for your garden! If you have a small garden read our article on the best trees for small gardens here.
Therefore the more trees and shrubs you have in your garden the better. Some birds like the wren appreciate low hedges which are densely vegetated while some prefer to perch higher up.
By providing a diverse variety of trees and shrubs the wider the range of bird species you will attract. If planting trees make sure they will not grow too big for your garden! If you have a small garden read our article on the best trees for small gardens here.
Create a hedge
Hedges have always been havens for garden birds, even in historical times. After the clearing of primeval forests to make way for agriculture hedgerows were planted to separate fields.
These green corridors helped to support nesting and feeding birds which once survived in woodlands. Hedges create dense and hidden thickets of vegetation which are perfect places for birds to feed and nest.
Hedges are also typically planted with species that provide food such as hawthorn or hazel. Gardens can be the perfect place to grow an edible hedge by planting species such as plums and chestnuts.
These green corridors helped to support nesting and feeding birds which once survived in woodlands. Hedges create dense and hidden thickets of vegetation which are perfect places for birds to feed and nest.
Hedges are also typically planted with species that provide food such as hawthorn or hazel. Gardens can be the perfect place to grow an edible hedge by planting species such as plums and chestnuts.
Provide plants which fruit all year
One of the best ways to make your garden bird friendly is grow plants which produce food all year. Climbers like ivy fruit late in winter when there’s not much other food around.
You can also grow small fruit trees like medlar whose fruit doesn’t ripen until mid winter. By planting fruiting trees and shrubs that produce throughout the year your garden will soon become prime, bird habitat.
You can also grow small fruit trees like medlar whose fruit doesn’t ripen until mid winter. By planting fruiting trees and shrubs that produce throughout the year your garden will soon become prime, bird habitat.
Grow more climbers
Climbing plants have an amazing ability to colonise some of the most challenging of vertical surfaces. Typically most gardens vertical features such as fences and walls are left bare.
However by growing climbers up these you can encourage birds to both feed and nest amongst their foliage. If you do not wish climbers to grow up a boundary why not screen out bad views with trellis. These are perfect for growing fruiting climbers such as grapes or even figs.
However by growing climbers up these you can encourage birds to both feed and nest amongst their foliage. If you do not wish climbers to grow up a boundary why not screen out bad views with trellis. These are perfect for growing fruiting climbers such as grapes or even figs.
Plant native species where you can
Today we all have a vast array of trees, shrubs and plants we can grow in our gardens. However the best species for local birds are species that are naturally occurring in your area. These native plants are more accustomed to the local environment and soil conditions.
Some bird species may have specific interactions with a certain, regional, plant species that are crucial to their survival. Try to research what plants are native to your area and include them where you can.
Some bird species may have specific interactions with a certain, regional, plant species that are crucial to their survival. Try to research what plants are native to your area and include them where you can.
Install a green roof
Green roofs are becoming a more consistent feature within our urban environments. Typically included within planning applications for ecological mitigation these can benefit birds greatly.
Green roofs help to slow down surface run-off, insulate buildings and provide valuable wildlife habitat. These roofs are particularly useful to birds as they are up and away from ground dwelling predators. In some inner city examples rare birds have actually nested and reared young on green roofs.
Living roofs can easily be installed on top of any garden roof including sheds, garages, offices and even log stores. These can boost local biodiversity and help to increase bird numbers in your garden.
Green roofs help to slow down surface run-off, insulate buildings and provide valuable wildlife habitat. These roofs are particularly useful to birds as they are up and away from ground dwelling predators. In some inner city examples rare birds have actually nested and reared young on green roofs.
Living roofs can easily be installed on top of any garden roof including sheds, garages, offices and even log stores. These can boost local biodiversity and help to increase bird numbers in your garden.
Replace your lawn with meadow
Garden lawns are one of the most common garden surfaces! They are reasonably easy to maintain, free draining and can host many garden activities. They are also however extremely unbeneficial to wildlife and local ecology. Lawns are also very energy intensive and polluting making them an unsustainable landscape feature.
Historically grasslands were managed more as wild meadows; this was to produce hay to feed livestock during the winter months. These hay meadows were rich in wild flowers and their dense, foliage was a rich habitat for insects. The numerous insects and flower seeds created a bountiful supply of food for local birds.
Wildflower meadows are becoming popular in gardens again once more and very beneficial to birds. To create a new meadow out of existing lawn plant wild flower plugs. Alternatively you can re-seed your lawn with native grasses and wildflowers.
Historically grasslands were managed more as wild meadows; this was to produce hay to feed livestock during the winter months. These hay meadows were rich in wild flowers and their dense, foliage was a rich habitat for insects. The numerous insects and flower seeds created a bountiful supply of food for local birds.
Wildflower meadows are becoming popular in gardens again once more and very beneficial to birds. To create a new meadow out of existing lawn plant wild flower plugs. Alternatively you can re-seed your lawn with native grasses and wildflowers.
Make an insect hotel
Insects are an integral part of a gardens ecological food chain. These small creatures are also extremely important for birds as they are an important source of dietary protein. It is a fact that the more insects you can attract in your garden the better it will be for encouraging birds.
One of the best ways to attract more insects to your garden is to create an insect hotel. These weird and wonderful structures can provide shelter and nesting opportunities for insects. These can be made from old pallets, logs or waste garden materials. Wall mountable insect hotels can also be purchased online.
One of the best ways to attract more insects to your garden is to create an insect hotel. These weird and wonderful structures can provide shelter and nesting opportunities for insects. These can be made from old pallets, logs or waste garden materials. Wall mountable insect hotels can also be purchased online.
Deter cats
There is much hatred put on cats by bird lovers but it’s important to remember it’s not the cats fault. Cats have a natural instinct to hunt; it is actually human development which makes it easier for cats to hunt birds.
Fences, low branches and dense vegetation all make gardens perfect places for cats to ambush birdlife. Try to place bird feeders, bathes, and bird boxes high up and away from cats.
If you want to repel cats put them off with smells they don’t like such as citrus. It is not fair, ethical or legal to harm a cat! If they consistently hunt birds in your garden try squirting them with a water pistol to scare them off.
Fences, low branches and dense vegetation all make gardens perfect places for cats to ambush birdlife. Try to place bird feeders, bathes, and bird boxes high up and away from cats.
If you want to repel cats put them off with smells they don’t like such as citrus. It is not fair, ethical or legal to harm a cat! If they consistently hunt birds in your garden try squirting them with a water pistol to scare them off.
Avoid using chemicals
An important thing to remember when making your garden more bird friendly is not use chemicals. Birds prey upon other smaller garden creatures such as slugs and insects. Both of these creatures are also targeted with chemical sprays and pellet poisons.
Even if garden chemicals do not kill garden creatures outright they can build up inside their bodies. Herbicides, insecticides and animal poisons can enter the cells of smaller creatures which then become food for birds.
This can lead to birds being poisoned and dying prematurely. It is extremely important if we want to encourage birds we must champion a clean environment. Practice organic principles where you can and do not use chemicals in your garden.
Even if garden chemicals do not kill garden creatures outright they can build up inside their bodies. Herbicides, insecticides and animal poisons can enter the cells of smaller creatures which then become food for birds.
This can lead to birds being poisoned and dying prematurely. It is extremely important if we want to encourage birds we must champion a clean environment. Practice organic principles where you can and do not use chemicals in your garden.
To make your garden more bird friendly you must provide good bird habitat. This involves an abundance of fruiting trees and shrubs for birds to perch safely and feed, Clean, fresh water to drink and bathe in, an ecologically rich environment full of diverse habitats and plenty of nesting opportunities. With some added installations such as bird feeders and nesting boxes your garden will become a haven for local birdlife throughout the year.
If you need assistance in designing or building a garden which is bird friendly please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our landscape gardeners serve The Chilterns including Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire and West London.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Our landscape gardeners serve The Chilterns including Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire and West London.
Some of our typical, local project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
There is probably nothing more picturesque than a traditional, English, cottage garden on a summer’s day. The cottage garden style has become famous over the years featuring in rural paintings and country magazines.
With their floral displays and rustic charm these gardens have a somewhat overgrown or wild nature. Flower borders are typically planted with tall perennials or annuals which self seed freely. This leads to flowerbeds with a ‘wild meadow’ effect and can also be very beneficial to wildlife.
Traditionally cottage gardens are set upon a backdrop of traditional English cottages. These rural, stone buildings with their thatched roofs can be centuries old. Their charming character has led to a compete romanticism around the style of cottage gardens.
However there is one thing about cottage gardens which make them truly versatile. Their theme and elements seems to be incorporated into almost any other situation, from small, urban gardens to contemporary garden design and modern courtyards.
With their floral displays and rustic charm these gardens have a somewhat overgrown or wild nature. Flower borders are typically planted with tall perennials or annuals which self seed freely. This leads to flowerbeds with a ‘wild meadow’ effect and can also be very beneficial to wildlife.
Traditionally cottage gardens are set upon a backdrop of traditional English cottages. These rural, stone buildings with their thatched roofs can be centuries old. Their charming character has led to a compete romanticism around the style of cottage gardens.
However there is one thing about cottage gardens which make them truly versatile. Their theme and elements seems to be incorporated into almost any other situation, from small, urban gardens to contemporary garden design and modern courtyards.
Historically Cottage gardens were established out of necessity by farming peasants. These gardens were for growing fruits and vegetables as well as medicinal herbs and cut flowers. Consequently food growing is still an integral part of many modern, cottage gardens.
Back in the 1700’s there was a particular love of vibrant flowers. This combined with long, laborious, working hours led to the extensive use of perennials and self seeding annuals. Such flower borders require less intensive maintenance and almost form a dense meadow like thicket. These crowded out weeds and led to a sea of seasonal colour.
If you want to create your own cottage garden in this article we have broken down their typical elements. This will help you to plan, design and implement your very own traditional, cottage garden paradise.
Back in the 1700’s there was a particular love of vibrant flowers. This combined with long, laborious, working hours led to the extensive use of perennials and self seeding annuals. Such flower borders require less intensive maintenance and almost form a dense meadow like thicket. These crowded out weeds and led to a sea of seasonal colour.
If you want to create your own cottage garden in this article we have broken down their typical elements. This will help you to plan, design and implement your very own traditional, cottage garden paradise.
Design
When designing your cottage garden or any garden you should always consider function first. What are the sites strengths and weaknesses? List these down on a piece of paper in separate columns.
Draw out a separate, existing plan of your garden and sketch out ideas on overlays of tracing paper. Try to maximise your sites strengths and design out its weaknesses. Perhaps you want to create a larger seating area in a sunnier part of the garden?
One of the most important design elements of any new garden is circulation. Think about how you currently move around your garden and how this can be improved. For example if you have a herb growing area this is best positioned within close access to the kitchen.
Cottage gardens are well known for their informal pathways, plan a circulatory path which will serve your movements well.
Draw out a separate, existing plan of your garden and sketch out ideas on overlays of tracing paper. Try to maximise your sites strengths and design out its weaknesses. Perhaps you want to create a larger seating area in a sunnier part of the garden?
One of the most important design elements of any new garden is circulation. Think about how you currently move around your garden and how this can be improved. For example if you have a herb growing area this is best positioned within close access to the kitchen.
Cottage gardens are well known for their informal pathways, plan a circulatory path which will serve your movements well.
The most exciting part of designing your cottage garden is by exploring precedent images. Look at examples of cottage gardens online and collect ideas you like. These can include planting combinations, garden layouts or hard materials.
Take pictures of various angles and scenes of your existing garden. Using tracing paper, sketch out ideas over the top of your garden images. Eventually your sketches will start to evolve into hard proposals. These can now be sketched out onto a large scale plan of your garden.
Designing any garden can be daunting if you have no previous experience. However this process can be a lot of fun! By finding precedent images of cottage gardens you like you can be sure to sketch out exactly what you want. Below we have added some cottage garden elements you may wish to include in your cottage garden.
Take pictures of various angles and scenes of your existing garden. Using tracing paper, sketch out ideas over the top of your garden images. Eventually your sketches will start to evolve into hard proposals. These can now be sketched out onto a large scale plan of your garden.
Designing any garden can be daunting if you have no previous experience. However this process can be a lot of fun! By finding precedent images of cottage gardens you like you can be sure to sketch out exactly what you want. Below we have added some cottage garden elements you may wish to include in your cottage garden.
Wide borders
Cottage gardens are famous for their large, wide borders full of flowers. As beautiful as these are creating them can be a daunting experience. When creating wide borders you may have to accept they may look bare until your plants become established.
Hence it is a good idea to dig over the borders well and then apply mulch to the soils surface. This will stop weeds from competing with your young plants. When choosing your plants try to go for hardy perennials and summer flowering bulbs. These will come up every year and divide freely helping you to fill up your borders quickly.
Hence it is a good idea to dig over the borders well and then apply mulch to the soils surface. This will stop weeds from competing with your young plants. When choosing your plants try to go for hardy perennials and summer flowering bulbs. These will come up every year and divide freely helping you to fill up your borders quickly.
Cottage garden plants
When most people think of cottage gardens they think of crowded beds with fountains of colour. Although this is typical there is a vast array of choice available that will work with this theme. There are even examples of Mediterranean plants such as palms and succulents which can work well in cottage gardens.
As a guide I would say try not to grow large, bushy shrubs and stick with things that are easy to maintain. Plants that maintain their natural form such as artichokes and grasses work well. Try to include plants with contrasting foliage and ones which flower at different times of the year. This will enable you to include as much seasonal interest as possible.
As a guide I would say try not to grow large, bushy shrubs and stick with things that are easy to maintain. Plants that maintain their natural form such as artichokes and grasses work well. Try to include plants with contrasting foliage and ones which flower at different times of the year. This will enable you to include as much seasonal interest as possible.
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If you want to replicate traditional, cottage, garden, flower borders concentrate on planting flowers that come up every year. Summer flowering bulbs and perennial flowers such as Rudbeckia are perfect for such cottage garden borders.
Also include self seeding annuals like poppies which will dazzle the garden with colour every summer. Try to think about colour combinations that work well when planning cottage garden borders. For example reds and whites, yellow and blues and pinks and purples always work well together.
Also include self seeding annuals like poppies which will dazzle the garden with colour every summer. Try to think about colour combinations that work well when planning cottage garden borders. For example reds and whites, yellow and blues and pinks and purples always work well together.
Herbs
Herb gardens have a typical affiliation with cottage gardens and also have a functional element. Traditionally positioned next to the kitchen of the home, herb gardens can also become central features. Raised beds of herbs can be planted next to pathways or at the front of flower borders. Herbs can be organised spatially for specific uses such as medicinal herbs, herbs for teas and seasoning meats.
Fruit trees
As cottage gardens were always places of productivity it is very common to have the odd fruit tree. If you have a small garden you can grow a variety on a dwarf rootstock. Many old cottage gardens would make use of a sunny south facing wall to train figs or even peaches. In addition to providing a seasonal crop fruit trees also produce glorious spring blossom!
Soil
Cottage gardens have a reputation of having extremely fertile soil full of nutrients. This is because historically cottage gardens were a place to recycle household waste. Manure from livestock, kitchen scraps and ashes from the fire were continuously spread upon flower borders. This made them extremely nutrient rich resulting in beds full of healthy, robust plants full of flowers. When creating your cottage garden make sure new borders are dug deeply with plenty of manure.
Little lawn
Although most cottage gardens can have lawn areas grass is not something which is necessary. Most cottage gardens boast larger planting areas with wide, generous paths and gravelled surfaces. If you want to make a cottage garden perhaps consider not having a lawn. A great alternative to lawn could be a wild flower meadow. This can attract wildlife and only needs to be cut once a year!
Fragrance
Using fragrant plants is typical of cottage gardens and can add a real boost to the senses. This is commonly done with rose gardens which line pathways or surround seating areas. Of course there are many other great, scented plants such as Jasmine, Honeysuckle and Viburnum which are also effective.
Gravels
Gravels are a typical surface for cottage gardens and are cheap, free draining and effective! The best gravels for cottage gardens are generally light or buff colours which give surfaces a lift. One of the most typical gravels used is 10mm or 20mm pea gravel. Cotswold stone, Oxfordshire shingle and free binding gravels such as Breedon is also very effective.
Paving
Natural stone paving has always been effective in Cottage gardens and is usually contextual. For example in Wales slate is used or Cotswold stone in the Southwest. However a wide range of materials can work in a cottage garden especially if you go for a contemporary look. I find that buff Indian sandstone on the market today isn’t a bad substitute for old York stone. This paving is typically very good value for natural stone and works very well in cottage gardens.
Brick
Bricks are a truly English tradition and come in a wide range of shades and textures. Made from fired, clay excavated from deep in the ground these take on varying characteristics depending on where they were quarried.
This gives bricks a contextual element with them commonly being used in cottage style gardens. Bricks can acquire more character as they age adding to the rustic cottage aesthetic. Typically bricks are laid into cottage garden paths using a basket weave or herringbone pattern.
This gives bricks a contextual element with them commonly being used in cottage style gardens. Bricks can acquire more character as they age adding to the rustic cottage aesthetic. Typically bricks are laid into cottage garden paths using a basket weave or herringbone pattern.
Recycling
Recycling has always been a theme of cottage gardens which adds to their quirky nature. Generally gardens of agricultural peasants resourceful landscaping has always been a feature of cottage landscaping. Some examples of these include using old baths for raised beds and making sculpture from rusty waste metal. Perhaps you also have some ideas for some cool recycling in your own cottage themed garden?
Statues
Very typical of classical and English gardens statues are also elegant accompaniments to cottage gardens. From stone animals to religious figures, statues are a great way to create a focal point in a space.
Pergolas
Pergolas are a great way to add height and a vertical line to garden spaces. These can provide shade in very sunny parts of the garden as well as support for grape vines and scented climbers. Pergolas can be custom built from external grade timber or bought in kit form. These can range from simple structures to more elaborate extensive canopies. All are very effective in cottage gardens.
Quirky decor
There is something about cottage gardens which just make them accommodating to all kinds of unusual decor. This allows you to celebrate more personal, garden elements which would be more of a stretch with other design themes. From plaques with funny gardening quotes to unusual ornaments the opportunities are endless.
Cottage gardens for wildlife
Due to the dense plantings and informal nature of cottage gardens they lend themselves very well to wildlife gardening. Full flower borders provide plenty of food and cover for invertebrates, insects, amphibians, reptiles and small mammals.
Adding extra wildlife habitat to cottage gardens can be as simple as digging a pond or seeding a wild meadow. There are also many smaller installations which can attract extra wildlife to your project. Some of these include; bird boxes, bat boxes, feeding platforms, bug hotels and hedgehog homes.
Adding extra wildlife habitat to cottage gardens can be as simple as digging a pond or seeding a wild meadow. There are also many smaller installations which can attract extra wildlife to your project. Some of these include; bird boxes, bat boxes, feeding platforms, bug hotels and hedgehog homes.
Making a cottage garden can be a fulfilling and rewarding way to landscape your garden. You don’t have to live in a thatched cottage in the heart of England to do so either. With a combination of good design, planting and hard landscaping you can make the perfect cottage garden which works for you.
Cottage gardens can easily work well with other garden design themes and architectural styles. By integrating elements in this article you can have the perfect, personalised cottage garden even if you live in the centre of a busy town.
Cottage gardens can easily work well with other garden design themes and architectural styles. By integrating elements in this article you can have the perfect, personalised cottage garden even if you live in the centre of a busy town.
If you require a landscaper, landscape gardening or garden design services why not contact Paul and his team. Our landscape services cover Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire Hertfordshire and the Chiltern region.
Some of our typical project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Some of our typical project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Improving your gardens soil is the key to more successful gardening and growing robust, healthy plants.
One of the reasons gardeners struggle improving their soil is failing to understand it is a living breathing, entity. Topsoil is a resource which takes millions of years of erosion and biological process to form. Healthy topsoil is a complex, ecosystem of organic matter, minerals, rock dust, bacteria, fungi and invertebrates.
The problem is, human impacts on the ground such as synthetic fertilisers, chemical contamination, compaction and excessive digging can lead to soil degradation. This is where nutrients leach away or soil life perishes due to a lack of organic matter, compaction or excessive disturbance.
The key to improving your garden soil is rebalancing its ingredients and ecosystems. This intern will improve its structure, workability, drainage and fertility.
One of the reasons gardeners struggle improving their soil is failing to understand it is a living breathing, entity. Topsoil is a resource which takes millions of years of erosion and biological process to form. Healthy topsoil is a complex, ecosystem of organic matter, minerals, rock dust, bacteria, fungi and invertebrates.
The problem is, human impacts on the ground such as synthetic fertilisers, chemical contamination, compaction and excessive digging can lead to soil degradation. This is where nutrients leach away or soil life perishes due to a lack of organic matter, compaction or excessive disturbance.
The key to improving your garden soil is rebalancing its ingredients and ecosystems. This intern will improve its structure, workability, drainage and fertility.
Diagnosing your soil type
All soils are different; this is because all localities share varying bedrock and vegetation types. The latter are for the most part what soils are made up of. If for instance you live in a river basin which has clay soil it is due to years of sedimentary deposits.
Clay soils are generally made up of eroded particles of shale rocks. These fine and dense particles absorb moisture readily and can compact densely over time. This is why many gardeners dislike clay soil as it can become sodden and difficult to work. Similarly sandy soils form from the erosion and accumulation of sandstone particles. All soil composition is a direct result of its geographical location.
However this is not to say all soil is destined to be either good or bad for gardening. There are pros and cons of all soil types. The key to improving your particular garden soil is to work to its strengths! Through gradual amelioration your soil can become the very best, regardless of its current properties.
Clay soils are generally made up of eroded particles of shale rocks. These fine and dense particles absorb moisture readily and can compact densely over time. This is why many gardeners dislike clay soil as it can become sodden and difficult to work. Similarly sandy soils form from the erosion and accumulation of sandstone particles. All soil composition is a direct result of its geographical location.
However this is not to say all soil is destined to be either good or bad for gardening. There are pros and cons of all soil types. The key to improving your particular garden soil is to work to its strengths! Through gradual amelioration your soil can become the very best, regardless of its current properties.
Clay
One of the most notorious soil types you hear gardeners complaining about is clay. This is because clay compacts easily especially when wet, during warm summers it dries out and bakes hard like rock. This makes it extremely laborious to work and for plants roots to penetrate. The positive aspect of clay soil is it retains both nutrients and moisture very well.
How to improve clay soil
To improve clay soils workability, texture and drainage you must deny its ability to clod and stick together. This will enable water to drain better and allow oxygen to penetrate the soils particles.
The best way to do this is add course, organic material. Material such pine needles, wood chips and broken down sticks will not just dissolve and allow clods to fall apart. By working in such material overtime organic soil life will start to multiply.
This will add gasses into the particles helping to break them apart. As invertebrates such as worms become greater in number their air chambers will help to oxygenate the soil. Improving clay soil relies upon a continuous system of adding such organic material every season. Grit and gypsum can also be added to help break clay soil apart.
The best way to do this is add course, organic material. Material such pine needles, wood chips and broken down sticks will not just dissolve and allow clods to fall apart. By working in such material overtime organic soil life will start to multiply.
This will add gasses into the particles helping to break them apart. As invertebrates such as worms become greater in number their air chambers will help to oxygenate the soil. Improving clay soil relies upon a continuous system of adding such organic material every season. Grit and gypsum can also be added to help break clay soil apart.
Sandy
Just as clay soil is too heavy, sandy soil is light, free draining and finds it difficult to retain nutrients. On the plus side sandy soils are easy to work and warm up quickly during the spring time. Plants find it easy for their roots to penetrate deeply, the challenge is getting enough sustained fertility within its structure without it leaching away. It is good to remember some plants do thrive in these soils naturally.
How to improve sandy soil
If you have sandy soil it is important to remember that the freest draining, larger sand particles will be near the surface. Therefore it is beneficial to test dig the soil to see what its composition is like further down.
It is common to find a denser, cloggier, powdery soil much deeper down. This can be mixed into the top layers with a system of double digging. Then by mixing in plenty of course organic matter and manure you can boost moisture retention and fertility.
As with clay soil this needs to be a continuous annual process. However by doing this every few years will make a significant improvement to your sandy soil.
It is common to find a denser, cloggier, powdery soil much deeper down. This can be mixed into the top layers with a system of double digging. Then by mixing in plenty of course organic matter and manure you can boost moisture retention and fertility.
As with clay soil this needs to be a continuous annual process. However by doing this every few years will make a significant improvement to your sandy soil.
Loamy
By far one of the best soil types going is a loamy soil. This generally has a combination of the attributes of both sandy and clay soils. These soils are easy to dig but still have a clump forming nature.
This makes it easy for roots to penetrate but easy for both nutrients and moisture to be retained. If you have a loose, crumbly soil which you can form a ball in your hand it is most certainly a loam.
As there is not really any need to change the texture of these soils a regular amelioration schedule will be adequate. Aim at boosting soil ecology by adding plenty of organic material and manure.
This makes it easy for roots to penetrate but easy for both nutrients and moisture to be retained. If you have a loose, crumbly soil which you can form a ball in your hand it is most certainly a loam.
As there is not really any need to change the texture of these soils a regular amelioration schedule will be adequate. Aim at boosting soil ecology by adding plenty of organic material and manure.
PH
Soil PH is the measurement of either how acidic or alkali your soil is. The PH scale which measures this metric spans from 1-14, 1 being the most extreme end of acidity and 14 being the highest level of alkali.
Most garden plants prefer a neutral PH hence around 6 or 7. When contemplating improving your garden soil it is advantageous to find out what PH your soil sits at. This will govern what types of plants you are able to grow successfully.
Generally the majority of plants prefer neutral or slightly alkali soil. If you do have acidic soil you can add more calcareous materials such as lime and chalk. These will help to neutralise acidic conditions and create a more alkali soil.
Most garden plants prefer a neutral PH hence around 6 or 7. When contemplating improving your garden soil it is advantageous to find out what PH your soil sits at. This will govern what types of plants you are able to grow successfully.
Generally the majority of plants prefer neutral or slightly alkali soil. If you do have acidic soil you can add more calcareous materials such as lime and chalk. These will help to neutralise acidic conditions and create a more alkali soil.
Essential components of healthy soil:
All soil needs a good balance of healthy components in order for plants to thrive. If you find it challenging to get plants to grow well in your garden, chances are your soil lacks some of these essential components.
The best way to approach improving your soil is to begin to familiarise yourself with these healthy components listed below. By identifying possible deficiencies in these and gradually working them into the soil is sure to bring effective results.
The best way to approach improving your soil is to begin to familiarise yourself with these healthy components listed below. By identifying possible deficiencies in these and gradually working them into the soil is sure to bring effective results.
Organic matter
One of the most common reasons for bad soil is the lack of organic matter present. This is no real surprise as in nature organic matter is continuously replaced. Fallen leaves, dead plants and animals all are a continuous source of organic matter to the soil. This keeps micro-organisms fed leading to vibrant soil ecology. Modern gardening typically aims to clear up fallen leaves and throw away dead or dying pants. This leads to a slow reduction of organic matter hence nutrients from the soil.
Free draining particles
Free draining particles can be a characteristic of the soils original bedrock, for example sandy soils are incredibly permeable. Generally free draining particles are ones which allow for small air gaps within the soils structure. This enables water to pass through freely and is most commonly attributed to organic matter.
Moisture retaining particles
A soils moisture content is extremely important for healthy plant growth. Having consistent moisture not too wet or not too dry is optimum. Not only is this beneficial for the plants themselves but also for abundant soil life. This helps bacteria, fungi and invertebrates to thrive breaking down organic particles and producing fertility. Moisture retaining particles can be attributed to absorbent soil articles such as clay and organic material.
Minerals
Soil minerals are generally derived from the weathered rock particles which originally formed the soil. Some of the most mineral rich soils on the planet are within the geographical reach of volcanic eruptions. This historical layering of ash and larva results in high levels of trace minerals. Mineral rock dusts can be bought in powder form and worked into the soil or added during composting.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen is a nutrient absolutely essential for plant growth! It helps the plant to grow its cells and carry out essential biological functions. A nitrogen deficiency in the soil will usually translate into stunted growth and premature death in plants. Nitrogen is a nutrient which needs to be replenished constantly hence it is a component part of most seasonal fertilisers. The best way to add nitrogen to your soil is mix in green organic matter, compost and manure.
Phosphates
Phosphorous is an extremely important plant nutrient and has an integral role helping the plant feed itself. It has a key importance in the metabolism of sugars, energy transfer and cell division for the vital process of photosynthesis in plants. In nature phosphorous is added to the soil by dead animals and droppings. This can be replicated by adding bone meal to your soil.
Potassium
Potassium commonly referred to as potash is a plant nutrient that particularly helps to induce flowering and fruiting. This makes it especially important for fruit and vegetable gardeners. This nutrient also helps plants to utilise available water and resist drought conditions. Potassium is commonly added to the soil by mixing in ashes from burnt, woody materials. However potassium like nitrogen and phosphorous can be added with a good quality organic fertiliser.
Oxygen
Oxygen is essential for good drainage and healthy soil life. If your garden soil is currently compacted make sure you dig it well and mix in plenty of organic matter. Over time soil life will help to keep consistent oxygen levels within the soil structure.
Water
Soil needs to be moisture retentive but at the same time well drained. Too much water will starve out oxygen and there is a risk the soil will become either stagnant or compacted. If you live in a naturally boggy area build raised beds to make your soil more free draining. During the summer months keeping your soil well irrigated is also vital to keep soil life hydrated and healthy.
Soil life
Soil life’s importance is generally underrated but a vital, component part of all healthy soil. To improve your gardens soil you must take steps to boost soil ecosystems.
This can be done by digging the soil as little as possible. This prevents sunlight and extreme temperatures killing submerged microorganisms. Organic matter can be added regularly preferably by mulching from the top as happens in nature.
This is the best way to encourage soil dwelling invertebrates, insects, bacteria and fungi. All of which are essential for healthy plants and soil.
This can be done by digging the soil as little as possible. This prevents sunlight and extreme temperatures killing submerged microorganisms. Organic matter can be added regularly preferably by mulching from the top as happens in nature.
This is the best way to encourage soil dwelling invertebrates, insects, bacteria and fungi. All of which are essential for healthy plants and soil.
Working the soil
If your soil has not been worked in a very long while it is probably nutrient poor and compacted. The only way to begin to solve this is by digging over the soil. Digging and turning the ground adds oxygen and begins to break up clotted particles. This gives it a loose structure so it can begin to except nutrients and moisture. There are two main ways of doing this; by hand or by mechanical methods such as tilling.
Double digging
Most of the time when starting to dig over a new piece of soil gardeners will do a single dig. This is simply the depth of one spade or a spit. This is a good start to start working the soil to a loose structure.
However double digging is a much more effective method of working your garden soil. This is especially the case if the ground has not been worked in a very long time. Not only does digging two spits down provide a greater depth it can break through the underlying hardpan.
The hardpan is a compacted layer of ground which lies just under the top 30cm of soil. Breaking through this enables plants roots to reach much deeper depths and makes for better drainage. Typically a linear trench is dug two spades deep and fresh manure is laid in the bottom. The trench is then backfilled and the process is repeated.
However double digging is a much more effective method of working your garden soil. This is especially the case if the ground has not been worked in a very long time. Not only does digging two spits down provide a greater depth it can break through the underlying hardpan.
The hardpan is a compacted layer of ground which lies just under the top 30cm of soil. Breaking through this enables plants roots to reach much deeper depths and makes for better drainage. Typically a linear trench is dug two spades deep and fresh manure is laid in the bottom. The trench is then backfilled and the process is repeated.
Tilling
A great way to prepare extensive areas of ground is by tilling or rotivating. This is traditionally done by a mechanical tiller. These machines come in a range of sizes and have rotivating blades which cut into the soil. These machines do come in a wide range of capability levels. If your ground is extremely compacted it may need to be loosened by hand first. Tilling is a great way to work large areas of ground to a fine, friable texture.
Building raised beds
One certain way to improve your garden soil is to build raised beds. This can be done in a number of ways and with varying materials. Raised beds enable you to buy in good quality, humus, rich soil and heap this up on top of the existing ground.
This allows for a large root run and is an effective way to tackle poor garden soil. Raised beds are particularly effective if you have a high water table and want soil that drains well. The main drawback of building raised beds is it is laborious and therefore very expensive. Why not check out our article on building raised beds here.
This allows for a large root run and is an effective way to tackle poor garden soil. Raised beds are particularly effective if you have a high water table and want soil that drains well. The main drawback of building raised beds is it is laborious and therefore very expensive. Why not check out our article on building raised beds here.
No dig gardening
No dig gardening works on the idea of not turning the soil hence promoting healthy soil ecology. Organic mulch is continually added to the soils surface as would happen in nature. Eventually a robust soil ecosystem is encouraged leading to a healthy growing medium for plants. There is no doubt ‘no dig gardening’ is a sound way to build soil. However If you are starting with very hungry and compacted ground I would advise an initial dig before mulching.
Composting
One of the best ways to start improving your garden soil is to start composting. This allows you to harvest organic waste from your site and use it to enrich the soil. Lawn cuttings, hedge trimmings, weeds and dead plants can all be heaped up seasonally and composted.
Composting will allow you to recycle nutrients and slowly build your soils fertility. Vegetable scraps, untreated cardboard and paper can also be added to your composting regime. There are many different methods of composting including compost bins, tumblers and rollers.
Composting will allow you to recycle nutrients and slowly build your soils fertility. Vegetable scraps, untreated cardboard and paper can also be added to your composting regime. There are many different methods of composting including compost bins, tumblers and rollers.
Manures
In nature animal droppings deposited over time replenish the soils fertility. Your garden is not that much different other than the fact your garden borders are probably very nutrient demanding.
For this reason adding manure is an effective way of improving your gardens soil. Manure is high in nitrogen which is a nutritious food for plants. If applying fresh manure it is preferable to make sure it is rotted down first. This is so the high nitrogen content does not burn young plants. Some of the best manures for your garden are cow, horse and chicken manure.
For this reason adding manure is an effective way of improving your gardens soil. Manure is high in nitrogen which is a nutritious food for plants. If applying fresh manure it is preferable to make sure it is rotted down first. This is so the high nitrogen content does not burn young plants. Some of the best manures for your garden are cow, horse and chicken manure.
Green Manures
Green manures are fast growing plants which cover the ground quickly. These are typically legumes meaning they fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and store it in their roots. These plants can then be dug into the soils surface while still green.
This adds fertility and helps to improve the soils structure. Usually a method used in crop rotation and vegetable gardening green manures offer an ecological way to improve your garden soil. Some crops such as broad beans can also be treated as green manures. When beans are harvested the dead plants can then be worked back into the soil.
This adds fertility and helps to improve the soils structure. Usually a method used in crop rotation and vegetable gardening green manures offer an ecological way to improve your garden soil. Some crops such as broad beans can also be treated as green manures. When beans are harvested the dead plants can then be worked back into the soil.
If you want to improve your garden soil it is important to realise it is an ongoing process. Be prepared for some hard work in the beginning alleviating compaction and adding ameliorants. Start recycling nutrients with composting and mulching. This will develop a rich soil ecosystem and a perfect growing medium that will reward you year after year.
If you need landscaping services do not hesitate to contact us. Some of our typical operational areas include: Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
A woodland garden is a garden which mimics forest environments within natural ecosystems. Woodland gardens do not even have to have trees but will incorporate woodland species within a garden setting. These can be a shady area planted with shade loving shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs.
Woodland gardens can be both exciting and relaxing places to enjoy nature. It has been shown that naturalistic environments like woodlands can reduce stress and make us feel good. Planting a forest in your garden may be out of the question!
However woodland gardens are well within the realm of possibility for most gardens even very small ones. These can become a haven to escape the stresses of everyday life, a place to relax with your family and reconnect with nature.
Woodland gardens can be both exciting and relaxing places to enjoy nature. It has been shown that naturalistic environments like woodlands can reduce stress and make us feel good. Planting a forest in your garden may be out of the question!
However woodland gardens are well within the realm of possibility for most gardens even very small ones. These can become a haven to escape the stresses of everyday life, a place to relax with your family and reconnect with nature.
Why make a woodland garden?
A typical scenario where you would want to create a woodland garden is where you already have established trees. These could be in your own garden or in surrounding gardens which cast shade on your site. This ‘borrowed landscape’ can be a way of making use of unwanted shade or boosting local wildlife habitat.
Woodlands are nature’s way of harvesting the suns energy in an efficient ecosystem. The varying canopies of vegetation create a lush, green environment rich in wildlife and seasonal delights. Do not be fooled by most typical woodlands in our countryside today. These plantations all contain trees the same age all with a single level canopy.
Woodlands are nature’s way of harvesting the suns energy in an efficient ecosystem. The varying canopies of vegetation create a lush, green environment rich in wildlife and seasonal delights. Do not be fooled by most typical woodlands in our countryside today. These plantations all contain trees the same age all with a single level canopy.
A good example of a completely natural, temperate forest is the Bialowieza Forest in Eastern Poland. This forest has never been cut and has varying canopy levels rich in biodiversity.
A well managed woodland garden can become a green oasis layered with vegetation and seasonal transformations. These can be planted with much smaller garden trees and plants to create thickets of colour.
You may want to plant a woodland scheme that encourages local birds! You may want an edible woodland, orchard or food forest creating layers of edible fruit, nuts, berries, mushrooms and tubers.
With woodland gardens quite possibly the opportunities are endless.
A well managed woodland garden can become a green oasis layered with vegetation and seasonal transformations. These can be planted with much smaller garden trees and plants to create thickets of colour.
You may want to plant a woodland scheme that encourages local birds! You may want an edible woodland, orchard or food forest creating layers of edible fruit, nuts, berries, mushrooms and tubers.
With woodland gardens quite possibly the opportunities are endless.
Designing your woodland garden
Whether you already have established trees or are starting from scratch you need a vision! Sometimes visualising a completed outcome in your mind is extremely challenging.
This is where you may need some precedent images to interpret what you want. By using visual search engines there are plenty of examples of effective woodland gardens. These can give you some great extra ideas as well as visualise your own project.
Take pictures of your garden from multiple angles. These can be printed out in black and white and sketched over using tracing paper. This can get the whole family involved in the planning process. Individual ideas and scenes from precedent images can also be overlaid onto images of your garden.
This is where you may need some precedent images to interpret what you want. By using visual search engines there are plenty of examples of effective woodland gardens. These can give you some great extra ideas as well as visualise your own project.
Take pictures of your garden from multiple angles. These can be printed out in black and white and sketched over using tracing paper. This can get the whole family involved in the planning process. Individual ideas and scenes from precedent images can also be overlaid onto images of your garden.
When you have physical proposals for your garden zones map them out on a sketch garden plan. Start making a list of plants you need to acquire, at what size and how long it will take them to reach their full height. Check out our articles on plants that love shady gardens and best trees for small gardens.
With all landscape design and build projects there will be some trial and error. Designing your woodland garden should be educational and also fun. The more time you spend doing research and planning out your garden the more chance you have of a successful outcome.
With all landscape design and build projects there will be some trial and error. Designing your woodland garden should be educational and also fun. The more time you spend doing research and planning out your garden the more chance you have of a successful outcome.
Creating enclosure
Woodland gardens are a fantastic opportunity to create enclosed spaces. These can be a great way to block out human development or urban views. Using canopies of foliage you can create your own secret haven for some much needed escapism. Creating enclosure with woodland gardens can also protect from strong winds, sound pollution and air pollution.
Seating areas
As well as creating enclosed areas woodland gardens can provide ideal settings for seating areas. These gathering spaces can provide much needed shade during the hot, summer months. There is something very therapeutic about sitting out with the family listening to rustling leaves and singing birdlife.
Contrast
Woodland gardens don’t just have to be dense, unmanageable jungles of greenery! Woodland gardens can give you the ability to take advantage of contrasting textures and colour. The bark of trees such as Birch, Cherry and Acer grisium look striking against contrasting back grounds. Woodland gardens can be planted with shrubs of varying foliage for dramatic contrast! These include the dark reds of Cotinus or the light greens of Lonicera to name a few.
Develop layered canopies
The way to plant a successful woodland garden is to develop woodland canopies. This is typical of natural woodlands which create very bio diverse environments.
When deciding what plants you want in your garden take note of their eventual height and spread. This way you can start to plan what your canopies will look like. Remember canopies are supposed to capture the suns light on many levels.
Make sure your plants are planted in order of height facing the sunlight. In the northern hemisphere this is 'south facing'. This way all levels of your canopies will capture enough sunlight to thrive.
When deciding what plants you want in your garden take note of their eventual height and spread. This way you can start to plan what your canopies will look like. Remember canopies are supposed to capture the suns light on many levels.
Make sure your plants are planted in order of height facing the sunlight. In the northern hemisphere this is 'south facing'. This way all levels of your canopies will capture enough sunlight to thrive.
Create a food forest
Not only can woodland gardens be tranquil and aesthetic they can also provide harvests.
Forest foods can produce amongst some of the most prestigious delicacies! Nut crops, rare fruits, cold weather yams, and mushrooms are just some of the woodland delights your woodland garden can provide.
By planting a combination of particular trees, shrubs and perennials you can create a food forest which will produce year after year with hardly any input. If you would like to know more about this concept study agro-forestry or I recommend Martin Crawford’s book ‘Creating a forest garden’ .
Forest foods can produce amongst some of the most prestigious delicacies! Nut crops, rare fruits, cold weather yams, and mushrooms are just some of the woodland delights your woodland garden can provide.
By planting a combination of particular trees, shrubs and perennials you can create a food forest which will produce year after year with hardly any input. If you would like to know more about this concept study agro-forestry or I recommend Martin Crawford’s book ‘Creating a forest garden’ .
Create a journey with paths
With their shady enclosure and mysterious thickets woodland gardens are a great opportunity to create suspense and discovery. By creating winding paths through your woodland you can provide a journey which excites the senses. If planned meticulously these woodland pathways can become a seasonal display of excitement! Woodland paths make effective nature trails and are a lot of fun for children to learn and explore.
Bark chippings
One of the best surface materials to implement into your woodland garden is bark chippings or woodland mulch. This gives the garden a distinctive look and feel of natural woodland. In nature dead trees and plants fall to the ground and decompose on the forest floor.
The result is naturally occurring loose, woody mulch. Covering your garden with natural wood chip replicates the natural processes within woodland. This will encourage beneficial soil, plants and animals which promote healthy soil ecology. Wood chippings also allow you to suppress weeds and keep moisture retained within the woodlands soil.
The result is naturally occurring loose, woody mulch. Covering your garden with natural wood chip replicates the natural processes within woodland. This will encourage beneficial soil, plants and animals which promote healthy soil ecology. Wood chippings also allow you to suppress weeds and keep moisture retained within the woodlands soil.
Encourage wildlife
Creating a woodland garden gives you a unique opportunity to encourage wildlife. Having buzzing insects and singing birds gives the impression you are in real woodland. Hence it is fitting to add as many habitat boosters as possible.
These can include insect hotels, bird boxes and feeding stations in the tree canopies. Decomposing woody material alongside dense plantings and fruiting plants make woodland gardens fantastic for wildlife conservation. Eventually you will gain hours of pleasure watching creatures you have provided a green oasis for.
These can include insect hotels, bird boxes and feeding stations in the tree canopies. Decomposing woody material alongside dense plantings and fruiting plants make woodland gardens fantastic for wildlife conservation. Eventually you will gain hours of pleasure watching creatures you have provided a green oasis for.
Woodland garden ideas
What makes woodland gardens really unique is the multitude of varying activities which can be hosted within them. Indeed woodland gardens create that little bit of accessible wilderness in our lives which evokes our sense of adventure. A well thought out woodland garden will encourage numerous new ways to use and enjoy your garden with the whole family. Below are just some of these exciting and interactive ideas!
Grottos
Grottos are a type of manmade cave which can be loads of fun for children. These can simply be a glorified garden shed or summer house, perfect for hiding away from the world! Grottos can be created in a whole range of styles from tribal like huts to Tee pee like structures.
Fire pits
What better way to enjoy your woodland garden than at night when the sun comes down. Humans have had camp fires in woodlands for thousands of years before the time of agriculture. Fire pits will give you the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and spend time with friends.
Wildlife huts
Wildlife huts or viewing hides are a fantastic way to watch wildlife in your woodland garden. These can be small, camouflage tents or more permanent structures built out of timber. The more permanent these are the more wildlife will get used to them, hence increasing good wildlife watching opportunities.
Log piles
Log piles are a great way to replicate dead and decaying wood in a natural woodland. This can add a vital habitat for rare beetles and fungi as well as giving creatures a place to hide. Logs can also look be extremely attractive features as a sort of natural sculpture. Logs can also be set vertically into the ground to create standing deadwood habitat.
Bird box cameras
Bird boxes are very effective at providing wild birds with suitable nesting sites. Woodland gardens also provide the extra opportunity to install bird boxes with live video recorders. These gadgets allow you to get a personal and up close view of birds rearing their young.
Bird feeders
Bird watching is an exciting and interactive way of enjoying your woodland garden as it establishes. One of the best ways to get the ball rolling bird watching is to install a bird feeder. These come in all shapes and sizes and can easily be hung from tree limbs or raised platforms.
Hedgehog homes
Hedgehogs are a huge fan of woodland gardens as they replicate their natural woodland habitats. Even though woodland gardens can be a great place for them to feed they can still lack good nesting sites. Hence installing a hedgehog home or nesting box is a great addition to your woodland garden project.
Growing mushrooms
Not many people know you can use the shady and humid conditions in your woodland to grow edible mushrooms! Expensive delicacies such as Oyster mushrooms and Shiitakes are typically grown on logs in woodland environments. Simply acquire suitable logs from a tree surgeon and buy dowels infected with mushroom mycelium.
Hammocks
Woodland gardens by their very nature are very relaxing places to be! What better way to get the maximum relaxation out of your woodland garden than with a Hammock. These can easily be attached to fence posts or trees easily folding away when not in use. Hang out, read a book, have a drink or simply sit and watch the birds in your new woodland paradise.
Wild camping
Wild camping is camping with only the bare essentials within a wilderness setting. This is camping in its truest form and an extremely enjoyable way to enjoy nature. Your woodland garden will give you a unique opportunity to camp out in the wild. However you will never be far from the comfort of your own home, or bed!
Camera trapping
With new, digital technology camera trapping has become more accessible to people than ever. Camera traps are an amazing way to discover what lurks around your back yard at night. By creating a woodland garden you are sure to encourage all sorts of new wildlife to visit! Why not monitor what new species are moving into your woodland habitat and calling it home?
If you require a landscaper, landscape gardening or garden design services why not contact Paul and his team. Our landscape services cover Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire Hertfordshire and the Chiltern region.
Some of our typical project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
Some of our typical project locations include; Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Chalfont, Chesham, Gerard's Cross, Great Missenden, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Wendover.
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The
Author
Paul Nicolaides
BA (Hons) Dip
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Paul Nicolaides has over 30 years of recreational gardening and 20 years of professional landscaping experience. He has worked for landscape contractors including design and build practices across London and the South East. In 2006 he qualified with a BA Hons degree and post graduate diploma in Landscape Architecture. In 2009 he founded Ecospaces an ecological landscaping practice which aims to improve social cohesion and reduce climate change through landscaping. In 2016 he founded Buckinghamshire Landscape Gardeners which designs and builds gardens across Buckinghamshire and the South East. This blog aims to provide easy problem solving information to its audience and encourage others to take up the joy of landscaping and gardening.
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