Beetles are "unsung garden heroes" that need our support to survive, urge The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and The Wildlife Trusts.
As part of this year's Wild About Gardens campaign, the two British charities are calling on gardeners to create vital habitats for the overlooked insects. From ladybirds to ground beetles and rose chafers, providing a safe patch for them outside will encourage balance in the garden and boost biodiversity.
Sadly, many beetle species are under threat from habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. Some of the simple things you can do to help them include planting pollen-rich flowers, creating log and rock piles, and not cutting back dead plant stems until late winter.
"Beetles are really cool. They come in so many shapes, sizes and colours and play lots of different roles in garden life – nibblers, pest controllers, pollinators, recyclers, and even undertakers," Helen Bostock, Senior Horticultural Advisor at the RHS, says.
"Like so much of our wildlife, they are under threat so we hope by shining a spotlight on them people will really start to appreciate and encourage beetles in their gardens."
Ellie Brodie, Head of Land Management at The Wildlife Trusts, adds: "Beetles play an absolutely crucial role in maintaining a natural balance in your garden. At a time when insect populations are on the ropes, it is so important that we create and restore wild areas to give them a fighting chance to recover."
Take a look at some of the simple things you can do to help the insects thrive...
3 things you can do in your garden to help beetles
1. Build a beetle bank
Beetle banks provide suitable overwintering habitat for the small insects — and can be easily done in an afternoon. To make your own, all you need to do is add a mound of soil to provide a shady and sunny shelter for lots of invertebrates.
2. Make a dead hedge
Structured piles of branches and twigs can be used to divide up an area of the garden and provide a residence for beetles as they rot away.
3. Create a beetle bucket
Ideal for small gardens, simply fill up a bucket with rotting wood and leaves. Not only will it put these items to good use, but it will make a home for all sorts of beetles and other insects.
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Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
