Hampshire has outstanding biodiversity — from chalk grassland butterflies to water voles, red squirrels on Brownsea Island and a huge range of birdlife. Garden planting choices can genuinely support these populations, and the plants that are best for wildlife are often also the most beautiful.
Plants for Pollinators
A continuous succession of pollen and nectar-rich flowers from February to October is the most valuable thing any Hampshire garden can provide for pollinators. Focus on single-flowered varieties — doubles are often inaccessible to bees.
- Helleborus — February to April, vital early nectar
- Pulmonaria — early spring, loved by bumblebees
- Geranium — long season, excellent for bees and hoverflies
- Lavender — peak summer, intensely attractive to bees
- Echinacea — midsummer, butterflies and bees
- Sedum spectabile — September, essential for late butterflies
Planting for Birds
Berry-bearing shrubs and trees provide food through autumn and winter when natural food is scarce. Hawthorn, holly, elder, rowan and cotoneaster are all excellent. Leave seedheads on perennials through winter — they provide food for finches and other seed-eating birds.
Creating Wildlife Habitats
A small garden pond is the single most impactful addition for wildlife. Even a half-barrel water feature will attract frogs, birds and insects. A log pile, a patch of long grass and a hedgehog gap in the fence all add valuable habitat at minimal cost.
A&T Landscapes designs wildlife-friendly planting schemes across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 for a wildlife garden consultation.