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A bat box works on the same principle as a bird box, except that bats prefer a wedge-shaped roost and enter through a gap underneath rather than a hole at the front. Using cheap, untreated wood, this box will give bats the perfect place to shelter

of ponds in the wider countryside. So, gardeners can do their bit by creating their own wildlife pond, which will also look great and provide a year-round focal point.Make a start by marking out the position on the ground. Use a garden hose for an informal-shaped

and sunny spot, or with pretty campanulas spilling out of the pockets, as here, for a cottage garden in partial shade.Roll of lead, 45cm x 300cm, from any builder's merchantMarine plywood, 30cm x 85cm18 clout nails (large-headed, galvanised nails)3 pots

Lay a patio now and you'll enjoy the benefits each time you're out in the garden. It's not a difficult job, so put aside a weekend and you'll soon be entertaining friends, or enjoying a well-earned rest on your new patio surrounded by pots

different foliage textures and shapes on long trailing stems, with highlights of large double begonia flowers and tiny white stars of sutera. The basket can be hung from a tree or garden structure away from the house, where the calmer colours and blend

summer.Learn about five of the most garden-worthy varieties, below.A distinctive variety with fringed petals, 'Forncett Summer' is a striking shade of coral. Height 90cm.Papaver 'Forncett Summer'One of the prettiest of all oriental poppies. The simplicity

Make a bee-lineGreat flowers start with pollination, and for that you need bees. Find out how to get the busiest garden insects to work for you.How to... make a bee hotelGardens are extremely important for bumblebees, and vice versa. Bees need

unique features. Plants can be pollinated in pots in coldframes or unheated greenhouses, or outside in the open garden. It is warmer work when done in the greenhouse, but pollinated flowers are more prone to rotting when indoors. Hellebore plants

A stylish raised bed is easy to build and can transform a dull corner of your garden into an attractive feature. Taking just a couple of weekends to complete this project, you'll soon be enjoying the benefits of gardening, without backpain too

, this spreading plant features clumps of strappy leaves alongside sprays of trumpet flowers in shades of red, yellow and orange.My top plants for extending colourCrocosmiaThis plant is ideal for the no-fuss gardener. The large, long-lasting flowers in pinks