What an enjoyable, informative and well attended workshop we had at Sunshine Butterflies. Shaun Walsh spoke about the best plants to attract wildlife in the Noosa Area with a focus on plants that are suited to the scale of urban gardens.
Shaun explained that gardens suited to wildlife have a mix of plant species and layers to provide maximum habitat opportunities. Mulch, branches and stones are important for invertebrates, worms, spiders and reptiles while dense and spiky shrubs provide safe shelter and nesting areas for small birds. Grasses and rushes provide seeds and shelter as well as looking spectacular when mass planted. Groundcovers and ferns provide shelter for reptiles and insects, and vines and epiphytes play a vital role in any garden by providing habitat for our beautiful butterflies. Carefully chosen smaller trees contribute to the supply of flowers, seeds, fruit and nesting sites in urban gardens.
There was plenty of time for discussion, questions and viewing the vegetation samples provided by Shaun. Participants enjoyed the time spent planning their own garden ideas with practical input from Shaun and Michelle.
It was a beautiful day to enjoy further conversation at the morning tea after the workshop and appreciate the effort that UWG members are making to create their own wildlife gardens. These habitats, no matter what the size, help to provide valuable corridors through the urban areas of Noosa for our wonderful wildlife.
Vanessa Presling
Click here for the Workshop Notes: Urban Wildlife Garden -Workshop – Best plants for Wildlife
