Plant lavender and other culinary herbs to attract bees
Transform
your green space into a thriving oasis with these simple tips
As our
natural world faces mounting pressure from the devastating effects of global
warming, the urgency to protect and enhance biodiversity has never been
greater. The theme of International Day for Biological Diversity in May
2026, “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” serves as a
reminder that conservation begins close to home. It is through community-level
commitment and individual action that meaningful, lasting change at a global
scale becomes possible.
Every
one of us can play a part, says Brad Barthorpe, Husqvarna Africa Distribution
Sales Manager, and the easiest place to start is generally in our gardens. “At
Husqvarna, we believe that every garden can contribute to the preservation and
advancement of biodiversity, and we’ve developed a range of tools that make it
easier for gardeners to manage and maintain these spaces,” he continues. “From
a window box in an apartment to a large country estate, by increasing
biodiversity in your green space, you are contributing to the healthy
ecosystems that we rely on to provide the air we breathe and the food we eat.”
To
encourage everyone to play a part, no matter how small, in protecting our
natural heritage, Barthorpe shares his top tips to create a garden brimming
with biodiversity:
Bring nature to your balcony
1.
Cultivate nectar-rich plants
By
planting more flowers and fruit-bearing trees, you will be creating a
delectable buffet for insects, including bees, butterflies and other
pollinators that are vital to our food systems. From hibiscus and rosemary to
buffalo thorn and aloes, choosing a range of seasonal plants that flower and
bear fruit at different times of the year helps ensure a steady supply of
nectar and pollen, attracting a variety of wildlife.
2. Add a
splash of water
Whether
it’s a birdbath, a small pond, a recycled clay pot or even a trough, you’ll be
surprised at how quickly adding water to the mix will attract a variety of
wildlife to your garden. A water feature is a platform for a whole new range of
plants that will also attract a range of wildlife to your garden. Running or
bubbling water is particularly attractive to birds, but be sure to change the
water regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and avoid using
chemicals such as chlorine.
Tomato transplants
3.
Create a fauna habitat
Encouraging
wildlife to visit and live in your garden will not only keep your green space
thriving and control pests but it’s also hugely enjoyable. You can attract
birds, bats, owls and pollinators to your garden by creating habitats for them.
From bird boxes to bug hotels and frog pots, you can choose to attract certain
species. Why not have a go at making your own instead of buying one? A great
project for you and the kids, and a wonderful way of teaching them about
biodiversity too.
4.
Eliminate invasive alien plants
Whilst
some alien plants and trees might be attractive, removing them from your garden
will provide space for a wider range of indigenous plants. These are better
adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, and by including them in your
garden, you will attract a variety of native wildlife, including birds,
butterflies and other insects.
5. Limit
the use of pesticides
Chemicals
spell disaster when creating a biodiverse garden. Not only do they kill the
species they are targeting, but everything else that comes into contact with
them. Instead, try using natural methods to control pests or, at the very
least, only use chemical pesticides when necessary in small localised areas
when beneficial insects are not present or active.
Barthorpe
says that whatever task you want to tackle to encourage biodiversity in your
garden, Husqvarna has a tool that will make the job easier. “The company has
spent the past 100 years creating tools to help people look after nature.
Whether it’s forestry, farming, landscaping, veld management or gardening, our
comprehensive range of equipment helps our customers manage and maintain their
green spaces and ultimately, promote biodiversity.”
For more
information or to view Husqvarna’s range of products, visit https://www.husqvarna.com
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