I’m creating a mini nature reserve
I’m creating a mini nature reserve in my small garden
By Our Gardens Matter
Creating a small mini nature reserve in my back garden has been, and still is, an exciting and rewarding project that allows me to contribute to the biodiversity right from my own home. By basing my garden on a woodland edge theme and adding a pond and small stream within my nature reserve, my garden has become a safe and welcoming habitat for many plants and animals to thrive.
I love how my garden supports local ecosystems and gets me involved in environmental conservation. Even on a small scale, it can make a big difference. Check out the ‘Wildlife’ page on this website to see the diverse range of creatures that inhabit my garden.
One of the initial steps in establishing a mini nature reserve in my garden was to evaluate the current landscape. I had an easy time doing this because I began with a blank canvas, a lawn-only garden.
In addition to my woodland edge-themed planting scheme, I have added a small ground pond, a small stream area, a larger free-standing pond for dragonflies, and a half-barrow water feature. I have also included bird feeders, nesting boxes, bug boxes, stones and wood piles.
In addition to attracting wildlife, creating a mini nature reserve in my back garden also helps to improve biodiversity by supporting a variety of plants and ensuring a healthy ecosystem. By planting a mix of native and non-native plants that extend the seasons, I am providing food and shelter for local wildlife while also helping to maintain a balanced and sustainable environment, benefitting the animals that visit my garden and contributing to the overall health and vitality of the ecosystem.
Creating and maintaining a mini nature reserve in my backyard requires initial effort and dedication to ensure it remains a thriving and sustainable environment for wildlife. Thanks to careful plant selection, the aftercare is low maintenance to avoid disturbing the wildlife that calls my garden home.
By actively maintaining my nature reserve, I developed a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and diverse plant and animal life in this now unique space. It continues to be a meaningful way to connect with nature and positively impact the environment.
The project not only enhances the beauty of my garden but also provides a valuable opportunity to learn about and appreciate the wonders of the natural world right outside my doorstep.
You may also be interested in my frog conservation posts on this website.
