Biodiversity in Dormancy: Supporting Wildlife During the Off-Season

As temperatures drop and landscapes turn dormant, it’s easy to assume nature has gone quiet. But beneath frosty hedgerows and fading seed heads, a vital chapter of the biodiversity cycle is underway. Winter is a crucial time for many species, and with some intentional choices, your grounds can become a safe haven for overwintering wildlife.

Why Winter Habitats Matter

During the colder months, insects, amphibians, birds, and small mammals all seek refuge. These species rely on undisturbed areas to rest, hibernate, or forage. Grounds maintenance that factors in these needs doesn’t mean letting things go—it means managing landscapes with purpose.

1. Leave Seed Heads Standing

While it’s tempting to cut back perennials for a tidier winter look, leaving seed heads intact offers a double benefit. Structurally, they add texture and interest to winter gardens. Ecologically, they provide vital food for birds and shelter for insects. Goldfinches, for example, feed on the seeds of teasels and coneflowers, while ladybirds may overwinter in the hollow stems.

2. Hedgerow Management With Wildlife in Mind

Hedgerows are essential corridors for birds, insects, and small mammals. Instead of harsh pruning at the start of winter, consider a rotational trimming schedule. This allows parts of the hedge to provide shelter and food throughout the season. When pruning is necessary, wait until late winter to avoid disturbing hibernating wildlife.

3. Provide Shelter for Overwintering Species

Simple features like log piles, leaf mounds, or uncut grass patches can offer refuge for hedgehogs, frogs, and beneficial insects. Compost areas, if managed properly, can also act as overwintering spots. Integrating these features as part of your winter grounds maintenance plan not only supports biodiversity but enriches the ecosystem come spring.

A Balanced Approach

At Flora-tec, our grounds maintenance approach respects the natural rhythms of the seasons. We manage hedges, prune trees, and maintain perennials in a way that supports long-term plant health while also protecting wildlife habitats. Through composting, recycling initiatives, and mindful scheduling, we help clients keep landscapes safe, tidy, and ecologically supportive year-round.

Let Dormancy Do the Work

Winter is not a pause in the ecological calendar—it’s preparation. By adjusting how we maintain spaces during the off-season, we contribute to a healthier, more balanced landscape. And when spring arrives, the rewards are clear: richer soil, more pollinators, and vibrant, thriving green spaces.