Make a feature log pile
Although log piles provide useful cover for hibernating animals, many gardeners regard a log pile as untidy. But here’s an idea to solve this problem: stack short logs to form a wall, like the S-shaped one pictured (right), to act as a feature in your garden, dividing planting areas or forming a background to a planting scheme.
Grow a mixed hedge
Autumn is an ideal time for planting hedging. Hedges do not have to be tightly clipped privet; in fact such hedges are quite poor wildlife habitats. Much better is a mixed hedge like that shown here (left), grown from native species such as hawthorn, holly and wild rose, perhaps bound with honeysuckle. It will offer cover for nesting birds and provide them with a good supply of insects and berries. And it will only need pruning once a year!