Build yourself an INSECT HOTEL

Welcome pollinators and other beneficial insects to your garden by creating a DIY bug house - then let nature do its thing

- STEPHANIE DURRANT

If you're a gardener and a nature enthusiast, you'll love creating an insect hotel. With all of its nooks and crannies, it will provide a vital haven for pollinating butterflies, solitary bees, lacewings, ladybirds and other insects that help pollinate flowers, control pests and maintain a healthy garden ecosystem.

An insect hotel is easy to make - you just need an open bird house. or a wooden box with an overhanging roof to protect it from rain. Instructions to make a simple box are below. Once you have your frame, fill it with materials from nature to provide shelter and nesting fodder for your guests.

YOU WILL NEED

1 x 10cm-wide rot-resistant wood board (you'll need about 90cm in length)