Day 29 of my Dark Days of December Challenge – the best way to combat the winter blues – is to appreciate the shelter provided by the Buddleja in my garden.
The Winter Protector of Invertebrates
While many think of Buddleja (commonly known as the butterfly bush) as a summer plant, its usefulness extends far beyond its vibrant blooms. In winter, the dense, twiggy branches provide a haven for small birds and invertebrates seeking shelter from the cold.
This morning, I noticed blue tits flitting in and out of the Buddleja. They weren’t looking for flowers – there’s none of them now – but the tangled branches offer them a safe hiding place. Spiders, overwintering ladybirds, and other insects also find refuge here, creating a tiny ecosystem within the woody stems.
Leaving Buddleja Standing
Many gardeners cut their Buddleja back hard in autumn (I used to do the same before converting my front garden to a wildflower meadow), but I prefer to leave it until spring. The dead flower heads may not look neat, but they provide additional protection and even a few seeds for hungry birds. Plus, there’s a beauty in the way frost settles on the dried flowers and branches – a reminder that nature’s cycle continues, even in the darkest days.
If you have a Buddleja in your garden, let it stand a little longer this winter. You might be surprised by how much life it supports.
A Reminder of Summer
Though it’s bedraggled and untidy now, the Buddleja is a lovely reminder of summer’s vibrant butterflies and fragrant blossoms. In winter, it shows its quieter strength, nurturing and protecting wildlife when they need it most.
Take time to pop outside and connect with nature to combat the winter blues – join others on the Devon Wildlife Truest 12 days of Christmas wild challenge