One of the best plants in my country garden for wildlife is Ivy, Hedera helix.
That’s right. Plain old common green ivy.
It provides an evergreen shelter all year round for insects, birds and small mammals and food for them in autumn and winter.

There’s a lot to be said for Ivy. It’s the ultimate low maintenance plant and it’s attractive for a start. Glossy evergreen leaves on the young plants are often heart shaped with pale green veins. Ivy climbs by attaching suckers to any support… fences. trees, walls, garden sheds and houses are all suitable.

As the ivy matures the leaves become larger.  Their immature foliage changes to become more oval with a smoother outline.
When the plant reaches the top of the support it flowers and moths and other nectar seeking insects pollinate it. After the flowers are over deep purple berries form,

The mixed hedge along our driveway has ivy running through it.
Whilst I was taking the photos the rain clouds moved in…

Luckily I didn’t have too far to run to take shelter!

If you love country gardens then I hope that you enjoyed this.
I appreciate your comments and I will try to answer all your questions. Thanks for visiting.

THANK YOU. MERCI. TACK. KIITOS. TAK. DANK U. DANKE. DZIEKUJE. OBRIGADO. GRAZIE. GRACIAS.

Happy gardening.    Gillian  😉