The natural habitat of a wide range of flora and fauna is rapidly disappearing across much of the country, and so the idea of providing a refuge for wildlife in the garden appeals to many people. Any garden with a wide range of plants will attract some birds and animals, but growing a wider variety of plants will provide better conditions for a diversity of wildlife.

The central focus of this style of garden is to supply both food and habitats for wildlife. If desired, conditions can be selected to attract particular creatures. For example, hawthorn (Crataegus) hedges are suitable nesting sites for birds, whilst berry trees and shrubs provide a source of food in winter. Installing a pond will attract a great many different forms of wildlife such as frogs, newts, birds, dragonflies and other insects.

In this section, we take a look at the steps you'll need to carry out to create a wildlife garden or meadow, with specific advice on the best way to attract birds into your garden.