Five Ways to Boost Your Garden’s Biodiversity

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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