In the garden were two mature non-native, invasive, buddleias at two corners. They were much loved by butterflies and their large size and ample foliage provided shelter for birds, who also enjoyed their seeds in autumn.
But the ongoing problem with buddleia is that they are not a native UK species and their seeds get carried far and wide by birds, causing them to spread invasively and aggressively where they are not wanted.
They had to go, but it would mean a loss of shelter that the newly-planted trees were not yet able to replace.
So began a slow transition of cutting the buddleia shorter each year, while at the same time planting ivy, and placing logs (from the old cherry tree) and wood trimmings around the base.
Eventually the old buddleia died and what remains are log piles that form an important habitat for insects, birds and small mammals.
Native Clematis
Native clematis was planted in another part of the garden that replaced the nectar from the buddleia and has now become the main attraction for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators!
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