Now that it’s (almost) officially winter, you probably think your entire garden goes into hibernation until spring, right? Wrong! Enter is one of the most important seasons for helping wildlife, and many animals and insects are still active during the colder months. You can take some steps now that will protect your plants, support wildlife, and lay the groundwork for a vibrant and biodiverse garden next year.
How to help birds in winter
Food and shelter are the two things birds need most at this time of year. Natural food sources become scarce, and freezing nights mean they burn much more energy. Take the time to refill your bird feeders regularly with high-energy foods such as sunflower hearts, suet balls and seed mixes. Add a bird bath to your garden and fill it with fresh water for bathing and drinking – even a small, shallow dish can help. Remember to clean your bird feeders and bird bath once a week to avoid spreading disease. Leave some hedges and bushes untrimmed so that small birds can safely roost there. If you have the space, put up some bird nesting boxes so that they have time to find them before mating season begins.
Create Safe Spots for Hedgehogs and Other Mammals
Small animals like hedgehogs, toads, frogs and others need undisturbed, protected areas to shelter and hibernate over winter. Try leaving a pile of logs or leaves somewhere quiet in your garden, ideally near a fence or hedge. Don’t feel that you have to keep every area tidy – some mess is good for wildlife! If you are storing bonfire materials, move them on the day of lighting to avoid harming hidden animals. If you have a pond or other water features, make sure there is a ramp or some stones so that animals can climb out safely.
Give Insects the Winter Homes They Need
Winter can be a critical time for pollinators and other beneficial insects. Many overwinter as larvae or adults, tucked away in small gaps, cracks, stems and piles of natural debris. To support insects this winter, try leaving hollow plant stems in place rather than cutting them back. Make a small pile of twigs, logs, leaves or bark to create a natural bug hotel. Avoid using pesticides, especially in late autumn and winter when insects are most vulnerable.
Plan Ahead with Bulbs You Can Plant Now
Autumn and early winter are the perfect times to plant bulbs that will grow and flower next spring and early summer. They actually need to experience a cold period to develop properly, so planting them now will set your garden up for a colourful display in spring. Try planting these bulbs now in preparation for spring:
- Daffodils
- Crocuses
- Tulips
- Hyacinths
- Snowdrops
- Alliums
- Grape hyacinths (muscari)
- Irises
You can plant them in your garden soil or in pots, along borders or even in community spaces (with permission). If you are working in a small garden or planter, try layering different bulbs in the same place, a technique called ‘lasagne planting’ so you get waves of colour throughout spring and summer as different bulbs grow at different times.
Do you want to plant a wildflower patch in your garden? Now is a great time to plant the seeds! As with bulbs, many seeds need to experience cold weather to germinate properly, so planting wildflower seeds now is a great way to plan for your future wildflower garden. You can buy some wildflower seeds from us – see our shop page for our full range.
Look After Your Existing Plants
Winter can be harsh on your existing outdoor plants, but a few simple tasks will keep them protected and healthy during winter. Try adding mulch like bark chips or straw to protect your plants’ fragile roots and improve soil health. You can move delicate potted plants into a greenhouse, or cluster them together near a sheltered wall to shield them from icy winds. You can use specially made fleece material or burlap sacking to wrap fragile shrubs if a frost is coming. Winter is usually a very damp period, especially in the UK, but dont forget to water plants a little if we experience an exceptionally dry winter.
Make Space for Nature as the Seasons Change
Preparing your outdoor space for winter is not about creating a neat, empty garden. It’s about making thoughtful choices that protect plants and animals while setting the foundations for a thriving spring.
By leaving natural features in place, offering shelter, adding cold-season food sources, and planting bulbs early, you can support local wildlife and enjoy a brighter, more resilient space when the warmer months arrive.
