8 things to do in the garden in spring
Spring is officially, finally here! Now's the time to give our outdoor spaces (and local wildlife) a boost! šæšBy creating greener, more connected spaces, we can support biodiversity, cut waste, and make our communities more climate-friendly. From bat boxes to water butts, there are so many simple ways to create a nature-friendly haven. All it takes is some inspiration (and maybe a rented tool or two š).
1. Build a raised bed š„
Whether you're growing veggies or some pollinator friendly flowers, it'll be sure to help bring your garden to life - here's what Aine said:
"We needed a circular saw to cut some wood to make a planter for our garden and are so happy we found Library of Things! Itās so useful because we donāt want to be buying and storing all these different things but sometimes you just need a circular saw to cut some wood." Doris the Drill is also a great help when making raised beds. Find out some of the benefits of growing in raised beds here.
2. Build a compost bin š¼
Making your own compost saves money, puts your food scraps to good use and gives your plants a boost in autumn. With the help of Doris The Drill you'll have it made in no time. Find out how to make a super simple compost bin here.
3. Start collecting rain water š§
Collecting rain water can be really great in reducing our need for hosepipes. With some second hand guttering and Doris the Drill you can maximise how much you get by catching the rain that lands on your shed roof. Find out how to attach guttering to your shed.
4. Put up a bird or bat box š¦
Just like these volunteers in Hammersmith did, with the help of Wei the Extendable Ladder. We love how excited Hammersmith Thing Technician Heather was to hear that Wei had been out helping the local wildlife. š Of course, Doris the Drill can help out here too. If you fancy having a go at making your own, here's how to do it. Knowles the DIY Toolkit or Mani the Hands Saw would be happy to lend a hand.
5. Make a hedgehog highway š¦
Garden fences are a big problem for hedgehogs. Why not get the help of Pierce the Multi-Cutter to make a hedgehog sized hole in your fence in no time, and help them to have more space to live. Here's how to do it.
6. Add a pond šø
According to the Wildlife Trust frogs are now more common in garden ponds than the countryside. Ponds are vital for all sorts of species, birds love having a bath in them too. Here's how to make one, even mini ponds are a great help and you can add those to patios. Brandy the Spirit Level would be happy to help your new project.
7. Build an arch using pallets š±
Whether it's to add vertical growing space for your new veggie growing hobby, or to grow some honeysuckle to feed the moths. Here's how to make one using pallets. Jazzy the Jigsaw and Doris the Drill would love to help.
8. Make a dead hedge š
They're free to make and absolutely great for wildlife. You can use it as a screen, petition, fence or just a feature. Lily the Secateurs is the perfect companion, to help you cut up that pile of hedge that you trimmed back in autumn and didn't know what to do with! Here's how to make one.
You and the local wildlife will be happy you took the time to get outdoors and have a go at these simple projects.