Why more and more of our gardens are growing wild

Social Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) and biodiversity are closely connected. By creating a biodiverse garden and providing a natural and stimulating environment that supports a wider range of plants, you can increase the sensory stimulation of your garden and help enhance the therapeutic benefits.

Biodiversity also plays a vital role in the health and sustainability of a garden. A diverse range of plant and animal life can help to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that is less reliant on chemical inputs and artificial interventions. This in turn reduces the environmental impact and creates a more resilient and sustainable garden.

According to WWT, there’s a greater acreage of gardens than nature reserves in England and this is why in a changing climate our gardens are so important. Below are some suggestions of how to encourage more biodiverse habitats in your garden or allotment:

• Plant a variety of native plants, because they’re adapted to the local climate and soil.
• Choose a range of plants that flower at different times of the year to provide food for pollinators and other insects.
• Provide water! Wildlife needs access to water, so adding a bird bath, pond or a simple dish of water can attract a variety of creatures to your garden.
• Avoid using pesticides which can harm insects such as bees and butterflies. Try using natural pest control methods or try companion planting to deter pests.
• Create habitats. Set aside areas of your garden, such as piles of leaves, logs or stones for animals and create microclimates that support a wider range of plants,

For those interested in rewilding on a large scale, it's worth considering a visit to Hooke Farm in Dorset or Knepp Castle in Sussex and be inspired about what you can do!