©Amy Lewis
Wildlife gardening in October
October is a pivotal month for many species that visit the garden, as wild food sources dwindle and the weather starts to turn cold. Berry, seed and fruit-laden hedgerows and trees are being plundered by birds and mammals as they bulk-up for winter, and some hibernating species are still searching for places to shelter.
Wildlife Gardening activities
A person picking an apple from a tree © Gavin Dickson
Leave windfall fruit for wildlife
If you have fruit-bearing trees in your garden, make sure to leave some windfall for birds, mammals and late insects. The decaying fruit is source of high-energy sugar, which will help wildlife survive when other food is scarce.
If you forage for blackberries or other fruits in the countryside, be sure to leave plenty for wildlife.
Leave out food for Hedgehogs
If the conditions are mild, Hedgehogs may still be active. Leave out meat-based cat food (no fish) to help them build up fat reserves for hibernation, as the weather will soon turn.
Plant wildlife-friendly spring flower bulbs
Spring bulbs are available from garden centres or online retailers in October. Buying plant bulbs in autumn is much more cost-effective than buying spring plants in the green come spring.
Top species include include snowdrops, native Bluebells, Snakeshead Fritillary, crocus, and Wild Daffodils.
© Richard Burkmar
Add late-flowering plants to your garden
Some insects species are still on the wing in October, including our overwintering butterflies like Peacocks and Red Admirals.
Late-flowering varieties such as Salvias, Sedum, Michaelmas Daisies and Verbena are great choices.
More ways to help wildlife in October
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