Gardeners urged to leave piles of twigs in garden before June 1

across the UK are being encouraged to leave small piles of twigs, stones, and logs in their gardens this spring, and the reason could give nature a much-needed boost. The advice comes from BBC's , which has urged people to delay tidying up their gardens until after June 1 to give wildlife a chance to thrive.

According to the experts, leaving natural debris like twigs or dead wood lying around can provide essential shelter for a range of garden-friendly creatures.

"Leave mini piles of stones or twigs in borders, or create a dead wood habitat such as a log pile," Gardeners' World advised.

"These offer shelter for small invertebrates such as centipedes, green shield bugs, and ground beetles, as well as amphibians and small mammals. They will shelter here by day and will then be on hand to devour slugs and other garden pests at night."

By resisting the urge to over-tidy, gardeners can support beneficial wildlife and even protect their own plants from common pests like slugs and aphids.

The small creatures attracted to these natural habitats play a vital role in keeping the garden's ecosystem balanced.

As the UK heads into late spring, experts are stressing that now is a critical time for biodiversity in gardens, parks and green spaces. Insects, frogs, hedgehogs and other creatures rely on natural cover to feed, breed and rest.

Even something as simple as a pile of dry twigs in a corner of the garden can act as a refuge.

Wildlife organisations have long campaigned for more nature-friendly gardening practices, and this latest push highlights how everyday gardeners can make a big difference with minimal effort.

So, before you clear away that dead wood or sweep up every last twig, consider leaving a few natural piles intact.

It's a small step that could help a struggling ecosystem, and save your garden from unwanted pests in the process.