Brits urged to leave fallen leaves alone this autumn

Garden boss and founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, Chris Bonnett is encouraging homeowners to allow leaves to pile up to provide a safe haven for wildlife such as hedgehogs and birds. Those who do wish to clear their garden of leaves are being warned to check piles for animals before raking to avoid harming them.

During autumn, wildlife needs extra support due to the drop in temperatures changing their environment and survival strategies. Wildlife will be looking for warmth and shelter to protect themselves from the cold weather and birds will be hoping to fuel up on food before making their migration journey to warmer climates.

Not raking fallen leaves is a simple and easy way for Britons to help support wildlife during this time. But gardeners do not need to leave the entire garden untouched if they do not wish to. Bonnett shares that simply leaving one spot in your garden untidy and untouched is enough to provide wildlife with a bit of warmth and shelter.

Bonnett said: “It’s that time of year where wildlife seeks our help and support to help them prepare for winter and get them through to hibernation and migration season. Not raking leaves is an easy and hassle free way to give these animals the extra warmth they need during this time. You don’t have to leave the entire garden untouched, just leaving one section untidy with leaves and other natural garden debris is good enough to provide shelter.

“Those who still want to clear their garden of leaves should be extra mindful before raking large piles in case wildlife is nesting there. You can do this by gently moving the leaves and listening for any movement. If you spot wildlife nesting there it's worth leaving their small pile alone.”

For more information on protecting wildlife this autumn please visit GardeningExpress.co.uk