Gardening for Biodiversity in a Climate Crisis

About this course

The workshop examines how gardening practices affect the plants and animals that share a garden, and considers ways to manage outdoor spaces with biodiversity in mind. Participants explore alternative approaches to pest and disease management, habitat creation, forage and water provision, and projects including ponds, bee banks and wildflower meadows. Teaching combines discussion of current sustainable gardening trends with practical demonstrations. The session also introduces holistic practices such as dead-hedging, composting and allowing more mess, while taking a critical view of approaches that go beyond simply avoiding chemicals.

What you'll learn

• Identify actions that can encourage biodiversity in a garden.
• Explain alternative approaches to pest and disease management.
• Recognise ways to provide wildlife habitats, forage and water.
• Describe wildlife gardening projects including ponds, bee banks and wildflower meadows.
• Explore holistic practices such as dead-hedging, composting and leaving areas less tidy.

Is this course right for you?

The course is listed as All Levels, indicating that it is intended for learners across a range of gardening experience, although no specific entry requirements are stated. Participation involves discussion, consideration of different management approaches and observing practical demonstrations focused on wildlife-friendly gardening.