You don't have to have sprawling lawns and burgeoning borders to welcome wildlife into your garden. Even if you're working with a small space, there's plenty you can do to coax all kinds of creatures into your plot: from growing a mix of plants to leaving little corners untidy.
Another creative way to beckon bees, birds and butterflies onto a balcony, patio or courtyard is by creating a 'pollinator pitstop' – a nifty one-stop-pot to provide food, water and shelter.
All you need to get started is a planter or pot in a size that will squeeze into a suitable space.
Next, pick some plants that are perfect for pollinators – easy-to-grow and care for options include oregano, calendula, catmint, cosmos, sedum and salvias – and a small, shallow dish filled with water and pebbles (this provides a perch for insects to hydrate without drowning). Once assembled, place your pot in a sunny spot and wait to see what wildlife pays a visit...
To make your pollinator pitstop work as hard as possible, choose plants that flower at different times of year, so there is a steady supply of nectar and pollen from spring into autumn. Early-flowering bulbs, such as crocus and grape hyacinth, can be tucked beneath summer plants, while sedum will keep the display going later in the season.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers, but leave a few seed heads standing over winter to provide food and shelter.
Keep the water dish topped up during dry spells, rinse it out often and don't use any pesticides, which can harm the very insects you are trying to attract.
Even a single well-planted pot can become a valuable stepping stone, helping pollinators move between gardens, balconies and nearby green spaces.
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