The next Insect Week is 19 to 25 June 2023, and is run by the Royal Entomological Society to encourage people of all ages to learn more about insects and their conservation. Follow @insectweek on socials and check out the @royentsoc to find insect related events, facts and fabulous photos.
In the UK alone, there are more than 24,000 species in almost every habitat. They can be pollinators, predators, pests, parasites and prey; with their study playing an important part in conservation, food production, medicine and ecology.
A winning garden for insects
There are many ways we can help insects in our spaces, growing wildflowers and creating habitats. Here is some inspiration from RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
This year, garden designer, Tom Massey created a Gold medal winning space, for the Royal Entomological Society. Constructed as a place where insects can be observed and studied, the garden encouraged us to consider our relationship with insects and highlighted the crucial role they play in our gardens and lives. With a state of the art outdoor laboratory, with the latest technology, including a moth-trap light that identified species as they landed!
Five takeaways from Tom’s insect-friendly garden:
Gabion walls filled with recycled materials provide structure whilst acting as insect hotels.
Collecting excess rainwater, can in turn support a huge variety of insects.
Dead wood, in stumps or log piles, will provide habitat for insects like beetles.
Wildflowers provide nectar, pollen and food for insect larvae.
Native hedging provides shelter and food for insects.
