A Southampton garden centre's plant expert has shared some simple tips to help people support biodiversity in their gardens.

Kathryn Crouch, plant team leader at Haskins Garden Centres, which has a store in West End, has shared her advice ahead of Garden Wildlife Week, which runs from May 26 to June 1.

She said: "Even the smallest outdoor spaces can create critical habitats for wildlife, so it’s important to protect them and help them thrive.

"You don’t have to do a lot to make a big difference – sometimes the simplest actions can be the most effective."

Kathryn suggests making bold plant choices for pollinators, saying: "Choose plants that flower at different times of the year to keep your garden buzzing with life.

"I recommend planting a mix of plants that provide nectar and pollen from early spring right through to winter.

"Hardy geraniums are excellent ground cover plants that bees love, while salvia 'Hot Lips' offers nectar throughout the summer and is ideal for smaller spaces."

She also advises embracing a little mess in the garden, saying: "When tidying up your garden, don’t be afraid to leave some areas a little wild.

"Piles of leaves, twigs, or undisturbed corners can become vital shelters for insects and other creatures.

"By simply keeping a log pile tucked away in a shady corner, you can create a rich habitat for insects and small mammals."

Kathryn encourages spending time connecting with your garden, saying: "I always encourage people to spend 15 minutes in their garden every day.

"Taking this time to pause, observe, and immerse yourself in nature builds a deeper appreciation for the life that thrives there."

Finally, she suggests enjoying the journey and supporting science, saying: "It’s incredibly rewarding to see the fruits of your labour come to life so take time to observe the changes you make.

"Learning about the different species that visit your garden can be fascinating too.

"I’d recommend recording the wildlife you spot and taking photos, whether it's bumblebees, butterflies, or birds.

"This allows you to track your garden’s progress while contributing to science through taking part in conservation campaigns like the Big Butterfly Count, which runs from July 18 to August 10."