Nature-based gardening tips for heat relief and biodiversity

Efforts to support local biodiversity and manage heat through gardening can begin in the autumn. Planting trees provides a natural cooling effect; the RIVM notes that the perceived temperature in the shade of trees can be 10 to 15 degrees lower than in direct sunlight due to reduced solar radiation and evaporative cooling from leaves.

To support butterfly populations, gardeners are advised to avoid over-cleaning gardens in the autumn. Leaving patches of dried plants, leaves, or long grass provides essential habitats for eggs, caterpillars, and pupae during winter. Additionally, planting a variety of species that bloom from early spring through autumn, and including host plants like nettles, ivy, and holly, ensures a continuous food supply for both larvae and adults.