Nurturing wildlife in the home garden. Does it matter? Yes, it does.
Many of us feel deep concern about the environment. Sometimes it can feel like there’s nothing we can do. In reality there is. Even if we can’t immediately change policies and leadership, we can make a positive and important contribution through our own daily lives. One of the ways we can do that is through tending our home gardens.
Whether it’s a patio garden or several acres you can make an impact through tending the land you call home.
The first thing you want to do to protect wildlife is to leave the trees. I cannot emphasis this enough. If you live on a property with trees, no matter what size, and they are not any kind of safety hazard, leave them be and let them grow. Trees provide shelter, habitat, food, and oxygen. We need them to balance the atmosphere. You can learn more about the importance of trees and old growth forests through Joan Maloof’s Nature’s Temples A Natural History of Old - Growth Forests.
For land and garden care it is also recommended to familiarize yourself with native plants and allow these to grow in your garden, whether they are volunteer or you plant them. Next would be to leave at least some leaves after they have fallen. Leaves provide mulch that protects soil and plants, as well as, break down and contribute to a healthier and more biodiverse and rich soil. They also provide habitat for insects to overwinter.
Another thing you can do is leave flower seed heads and rosehips because these provide food for wildlife over winter when food is scarce. It also allows your flowers to reseed and have a better perennial bloom.
Access to water is also important for wildlife. Whether that is a bowl of water, a birdbath or fountain, a pond, or a lake, bodies of water are a vital resource for wildlife.
These are just places to start. There are even more ways to provide habitat and protect nature, but starting with these you will be well on your way to providing sanctuary for yourself and wildlife.
Organizations you can check out to protect wild lands and biodiversity on the planet are The Nature Conservancy and the World Wildlife Fund. Both of these organizations offer in person hands on work to support wildlife, as well as, have the option to make donations or be involved in other capacities.
Another important aspect of protecting wildlife beyond hands on ways like cultivating a garden or volunteering with a conservation organization, is to be conscious of where you are spending your dollar and how you are spending your time. Take a look at the top businesses you do business with and activities you participate in. Do some research to assess their contributions to the environment. Are these positive and life-affirming? If you have a hard time finding anything, listen to your gut.
The most simple advice is to purchase locally. This reduces any shipping/travel needed, it boosts your local economy and artisans, and is likely a much higher quality purchase.
Lastly, if you feel like you need more inspiration or a deeper connection to nature. I recommend taking nature walks at least once a week in an area that is relatively low traffic and allows you the opportunity to feel a sense of peace. Take time to notice details and subtleties. Take note of how you feel when you arrive and take note of how you feel when you leave. Notice any ideas or messages you receive while spending time in nature.
We are all part of Mother Nature. It is our honor and responsibility to tend and nurture Her.
