Buglife: Habitat Mosaic

Habitat Mosaic is a Long Border designed to showcase the often-overlooked but incredibly beneficial ecological principles found in brownfield environments – spaces typically dismissed, yet rich in biodiversity. These sites naturally develop what’s known as open mosaic habitats – a patchwork of textures, materials, planting, and conditions. From sun-warmed rubble and areas of bare ground perfect for nesting invertebrates, to shaded pockets beneath tree canopies, weathered industrial remnants, and wild planting zones, they offer a range of microhabitats that support an extraordinary variety of insects, birds, and other wildlife.

The border is made up of a tapestry of textures and microhabitats – crushed brick, recycled concrete, sand, and gentle shifts in topography – echoing the layered complexity of post-industrial landscapes. Drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly planting flows throughout, from wildflowers and resilient perennials to soft grasses that bring texture and movement. A sculptural digger bucket, repurposed as a water feature, adds visual impact and a vital source of hydration for wildlife.

Old steel piping offers shelter and hibernation opportunities, while the overall layout forms a rich biodiversity corridor within a compact footprint. The theme centres on demonstrating how beauty and ecological function can coexist. Inspired by the designer’s personal connection to forgotten spaces and a growing appreciation for their ecological value, this Long Border shows how the principles found in brownfield habitats can be used to enrich our own gardens - making them more resilient, more biodiverse, and more connected to the natural world.

Key plants in the garden

Achillea millefolium ‘Salmon Beauty’, Stipa tenuissima (pony tails), Briza media (quaking grass), Succisa pratensis (devil’s bit scabious) and Dipsacus fullonum (teasel).