By Alex Evans Phoebe Jobling
Gardeners across the UK are being encouraged to give their green spaces a wildlife boost this summer by placing a large bucket of muddy water in their gardens during July and August. In the warmer summer months, there’s a push for garden enthusiasts to aid frogs and toads as they navigate the extreme heat, as well as the wetter days. Attracting these amphibians not only helps the environment but also aids gardeners by naturally controlling pests like slugs and snails which frogs consume. The bigger the container, such as a substantial bucket often used for gathering garden waste, the better the chances of attracting frogs to your garden. Sign up to our Manchester property newsletter here The Wildlife Trust has highlighted that creating a pond is the most effective way to invite frogs into your garden, reports the Express. According to the Trust: “Ponds are a vital frog habitat and important for other amphibians too, as they’re where they reproduce. Ponds are also vital hydration spots for frogs as they don’t drink through their mouths – they absorb moisture through their skin instead. “Frogs rely on a network of ponds and other water sources so they can move safely between habitats, so the more ponds in your neighbourhood, the better.” For those who don’t have the space or means to install a pond, a large bucket filled with muddy water and ideally some grass is recommended as an alternative solution. A resourceful gardener recently took to the internet to share his unique creation, explaining: “I took a large plastic bucket, filled it with water, then ripped out some long crab grass that I’d found round the sides of my lawn and dumped it in the watery bucket. “The grass now grows in the bucket, making a sort of unofficial pond. “Every night, I go outside and there’s at least one frog, sat nearby, gobbling up slugs. It’s been lovely to attract wildlife to the garden and it’s also helping clear pests from my strawberry plants.” Better Homes and Gardens point out that these mini pods are perfect for smaller outdoor spaces like patios, decks, or balconies. Perfect for a patio, deck, or balcony, this mini water garden adds instant appeal: the natural beauty of water-loving plants and the refreshing sparkle of water on a small scale,” they add. “Plus, it only takes an hour or two to set up, with no digging and minimal expenses.” Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE