Support insects and the ecosystem with your garden design

It's Sunday, a day that people in the UK traditionally spend looking after their plants and gardens. This is why I would like to discuss the role that garden design has to play to prevent the current decline of insects and minimise the impact this will have on our lives.

For anyone who is unaware, a concerning trend is unfolding with insect populations dramatically declining.

In rural areas, the intensive use of the land for farming & agriculture and over reliance of pesticides is impacting the population of vital pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Escaping to urban environments is not always possible due to pollution, habitat loss, and harsh Built Environments that create hostile conditions for biodiversity.

The consequences are far reaching and as well as impacting food chains they also impact the health of the overall ecosystem. Essentially , the absence of insects disrupts the delicate balance of nature.

A survey, conducted by Kent Wildlife Trust and Buglife, found a shocking 78% decrease in insect numbers sampled on vehicle number plates across the UK between 2004 and 2023. The data showed an accelerating decline.

Regional variations exist, of course, and England is showing the steepest decline.

Although they can feel gimmicky, Insect Bug Hotels provide shelter and stability to bees, ladybugs, and other insects. They also remind us that we need to do more.

For example, creating diverse habitats with native plants provides food sources and supports a variety of insect species. Or opting for organic gardening and reducing chemical inputs can significantly improve insect survival rates.

Even small pots and patches of unmanaged areas in gardens or parks provide valuable habitats.

So next time you think about your garden ,terrace or balcony and dream of a highly manicured and trendy aesthetic, remember that what you could do instead is create a haven for insects, fostering biodiversity and restoring the natural balance.

More:

- Bugs Matter Citizen Science survey (by Bugs Life)

- Further insect number declines in 2022 – a long-term trend or the result of record summer temperatures? (Kent Wildlife Trust)

- UK's flying insects have declined by 60% in 20 years (Natural History Museum)