German gardeners promote natural water sources for insects and wildlife

Plants such as women’s mantles (Alchemilla) and nasturtiums form tiny water‑filled leaf cups that provide safe drinking spots for butterflies, wild bees and beetles, especially during dry periods. The leaves and flower heads of species like stock roses, malvas and daylilies also retain rain or dew, creating mini reservoirs that help sustain garden pollinators.

The German Wildlife Foundation advises gardeners to complement these natural trinkets with shallow water dishes on the ground and on low platforms, adding stones or sticks for landing. Daily water changes prevent disease, and covering rain barrels or pools with nets stops animals from drowning. Providing shade through dense shrubs, dead‑wood hedges and unmown grass patches offers cooling refuges for birds, hedgehogs, squirrels and insects. Recommendations also include limiting mowing, avoiding night mowing, and keeping dogs leashed to reduce disturbance during the summer heat.

Together, these measures aim to bolster biodiversity in German gardens and urban green spaces as temperatures rise and moisture becomes scarce.