We are really looking forward to Spring and have started to think about what kinds of flowers we can plant to attract as many different mini beasts as possible. Our Mini Beast Planter has been designed to provide habitat for creepy crawlies as a by-product of growing our own vegetation. The colours provided by Wildflower create a spectacular sight and being low maintenance makes them the perfect starting point for school or nursery playground planters, children can simply sprinkle the small seeds into the soil and ensure they get enough water. Those same bright colours and vivid fragrances will attract all sorts of little creatures.
Marigolds and Nasturtium are also relatively easy to grow, look great and provide that extra sensory element because they are edible! And if you wanted to get a bit more from your planter you could try growing some fruits, berries or even vegetables which could provide a healthy home grown snack, teaching our children where our food comes from, how to grow it ourselves and how great that feels!
So, we have filled our planter with beautiful flowers, but what should we put inside the bug hotel to make our new residents comfortable?
Different species enjoy different things, so whilst rotten logs at the bottom of the planter are great for Woodlouse and Beetles, Bees look for items such as straw or dry sticks to use when burrowing. Ask the children to look around to see what little creatures already inhabit the local area and what items they use to create their homes. We should try not to disturb their natural habitat, we just want to mimic the resources used.
We know that bugs love little nooks and crannies which are easy to create within the planter using dry leaves, pieces of bark and Pinecones. These items are easily found in wooded areas. Large items such as rocks and logs should be placed towards the bottom where you can fill gaps with damp leaves or moss.
By placing the planter near trees or hedgerows where it can be sheltered from the elements, life will naturally flourish. Once your bug hotel is complete, try not to disturb it. Nature needs time to help to fill it and when it does it will be magical.
Remember to incorporate your busy little hotel into your other lessons too. Use Maths and Science to research and record data on the types of insect and number found or even practise letter writing skills by writing to our local MP to share the success story of this ecological project.
Whatever you decide to do please share pictures with us – we would love to see your idea’s!
