What's in your backyard?
This week we're thinking about outside. While we're coming into winter in Australia, the birds and bugs are also trying to find a way to snug up for the chilly season. This week we have a series of activities you can do to help out you local fauna. Even if you don't have a backyard, many of these things can be placed/used/done on a balcony, or you can put them in a local park.
And if you're not in Australia, you will be in Spring which is always a great time to work on garden projects. Pick one, pic two, or you can create your own challenge!
And if you're not in Australia, you will be in Spring which is always a great time to work on garden projects. Pick one, pic two, or you can create your own challenge!
Bee Hotels
When you think of bees, you probably think of a hive buzzing with activity and lots of sweet honey, but in Australia (and lots of other places) have solitary bees! They do the same, important jobs as hive bees, but they are independent. Bees are wonderful to have around as they pollinate the garden, and help create a better ecosystem. By making a bee hotel, you can encourage solitary bees to take up residents in your garden, and help the overall population. Here's how to make a bee hotel - in an old mug!
First, line the inside of your mug with hessian material (what sacks are made of) or a similar fabric for insulation. Then cut your bamboo shoots a little shorter than the mug (so the bees will be protected). Glue them in in layers so that they are all secure (a hot glue gun will work best - but you can use whatever you have).
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Bird feeders
It's always awesome to have birds around. Not only are they important for the local ecosystem - but they are very fun to watch and listen to. You can buy bird seed for native birds at the pet shop or supermarket, so if you make a little holder for the seed, you can encourage birds in your garden! It is very important to get the right kind of seed for you local birds, so do some research and ask your local pet shop experts.
There are two key things to have for your bird seed feeder. You need something to hold the seed, and something for the birds to perch on. If you place it in a tree, larger birds can sit in the branches, but smaller birds will appreciate having a perch right on the feeder. It is also good to have some water nearby for the birds to drink, and if the seed can be protected from the rain.
There are two key things to have for your bird seed feeder. You need something to hold the seed, and something for the birds to perch on. If you place it in a tree, larger birds can sit in the branches, but smaller birds will appreciate having a perch right on the feeder. It is also good to have some water nearby for the birds to drink, and if the seed can be protected from the rain.
Herb Gardens
Herb gardens are great to have. They encourage local fauna, and your environment. Herb gardens are also great because you can have them anywhere - even inside - and,of course, you can have yummy herbs for your cooking! Herbs, like most plants are seasonal, but they will stay alive through all seasons. You can pick out the herbs you want, and wait until they are in season to plant them.
In Australia, it is a good time to plant:
coriander
mint
dill
oregano
sage
thyme
You will need some nice potting mix, your containers will need some holes for drainage, and something to catch the extra water. Have something to label your herbs, and make sure it looks cool! You can grow your herbs from seed, or you can get small saplings if that is easier for you.
Here are some photos for inspiration, but what you will do will vary based on your home and garden.
In Australia, it is a good time to plant:
coriander
mint
dill
oregano
sage
thyme
You will need some nice potting mix, your containers will need some holes for drainage, and something to catch the extra water. Have something to label your herbs, and make sure it looks cool! You can grow your herbs from seed, or you can get small saplings if that is easier for you.
Here are some photos for inspiration, but what you will do will vary based on your home and garden.
Other Activities...
Writing prompt:
Have a great week!