TREES:
Trees in the garden provide beauty, shade, and structure to a garden. Different trees have varying characteristics which are favoured by different types of wildlife.
In the UK, we have over 60 native trees, but here are some examples::
- Oak
- Beech
- Birch
- Ash
- Willow
- Hawthorn
- Sycamore
- Holly
- Hazel
- Hornbeam
These are ideal in a garden as they have adapted to the UK climate and soil types. These trees are also more suited to our wildlife.
These native trees have many benefits for local ecosystems such as:
- Food source. Trees provide seeds, fruit, nuts, or flowers which are great food sources for birds, such as thrushes and tits that feed on tree fruits and berries. Small mammals such as squirrels and mice also rely on seeds and nuts produced by trees.
- Insects. Certain trees attract certain insects such as pollinators which in turn are a food source for other wildlife too.
- Habitat. Native trees provide shelter and habitats for birds, which build their nests in the tree and out of branches. Owls and bats may also roost in tree hollows. Insects too, such as butterflies, moths, and beetles, depend on trees for refuge and their life cycle.
- Carbon sequestration. Trees also take in carbon dioxide, improving the overall air quality of your garden, and therefore benefitting all wildlife surrounding it.
Here are some useful links about trees in your garden:
