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to silently observe them.Barn owls aren't the only birds making use of the garden. The nests of tiny, ground-nesting owls, Lechucita vizcachera, are dotted all over the lawn, flamingos and wild ducks also visit. We also saw plenty of hummingbirds, and small

and attract moss.Other garden items you can make yourselfBee hotelCone hanging basketTin can lanternsGreen roof for your bird tableBrowse trees with colourful barkView a variety of a deciduous trees

-east.If your local wine store doesn't have any spare crates, buy some extra timber and make one instead.Attracting wildlife and insects to your gardenBuilding a bat boxConstructing a bird boxMaking a stag beetle bucketBrowse plants that are attractive

on the surface to discourage birds and cats. Once the grass starts to grow it can be given its first cut when it reaches 4cm high.AdamPrepare the ground thoroughly before sowing and try to avoid exposing the lawn to too much wear and tear during the first season

the edges.Sit your topiary frame over the top of the ivy plants. if it's a standing bird or animal shape, try to create just one 'leg' at the base. Spread out the long trailing stems through the centre of the frame so they grow to fill out the shape

's worth netting greenhouse doors and vents to stop the birds stealing the fruit as it ripens.AdamIn very hot weather, it's worth covering your strawberry plants under glass with a piece of horticultural fleece. This will stop the leaves, flowers and fruit

. In severe cases, growth becomes distorted, leaves curl up, the plant weakens and can die.Natural predators, such as birds, earwigs, ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies, ground beetles, spiders and parasitic wasps are a gardener's best allies. Some

and can be collected in the morning. Encourage natural predators, such as spiders and garden birds, especially starlings. Use the biological control Steinernema feltiae, which should be applied while the ground is still moist and warm in late

.Plants are infested with tiny, sap-feeding, scale-like insects packed around the stems and leaves.First try to remove them with your thumbnail. If there are too many, use an insecticidal soap spray. Alternatively, leave them for the birds to pick off. In a greenhouse

and air from reaching the leaves.Black or greyish-green mould spreads across sticky honeydew deposited on pepper plants by aphidsThere's no control for sooty mould, but you can control the aphids. Outside, natural predators such as birds and ladybirds