Britons can take a step back in their gardens in December as there are fewer jobs that must be done.
Monty Don shared what he likes to do outside as the temperatures drop.
He suggested gardeners help to feed the birds by supplementing the supply of seeds and berries in the garden.
“I would say that one of the things I most enjoy about winter is watching the birds feed at the table outside our kitchen window,” Monty wrote in his December blog.
It is more difficult for wildlife to find food at this time of year
PA
He recommended using calorific food to feed the birds, such as seeds, nuts and fats.
Pastry, bread and cooked potatoes can also be used. Monty shared tips on ensuring the food is spread evenly and not eaten by the same birds.
The gardening expert added: “Another way of making sure that all the food does not get gobbled up by pigeons and starlings is to find an old log with lots of cracks and crevices and pour seed over it.
“The smaller birds will extract every last bit from the fissures that bigger ones cannot reach.”
Experts at Woodland Trust agreed it is important to think of garden wildlife at this time of year.
They explained it is more difficult for animals to naturally come across food in the winter.
“Winter can be a difficult time for wildlife,” the experts commented.
“Temperatures plummet and food becomes difficult to find. Insect-eating birds turn to alternative foods.
“Some species travel far and wide, and foraging behaviour adapts, but we can lend a helping hand by providing a welcome source of extra food for birds to turn to in leaner times.”
