There has been an obvious change in the air (and the weather!) since spring has sprung! As the days grow longer and the world around us begins to burst into bloom, it’s the perfect time to embrace the season and adopt more sustainable habits. Read on for springtime updates, eco-friendly tips, and ways to get involved with our community.
We’re all about reasons to get outside and enjoying the environment around us. Take this as your sign to spend an extra minute or two outside, taking in the changing season and enjoying a much-needed dose of sunshine.
What to look out for in nature this spring in your local area:
- Blossoming wildflowers – From bluebells in woodlands to primroses along hedgerows, the countryside is bursting with colour.
- Birdsong revival – Listen out for returning migratory birds like swallows and chiffchaffs as they fill the air with their melodies.
- Bees and butterflies – Warmer temperatures bring pollinators back in full force, vital for biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
- Frogs and toads – Spot amphibians emerging from hibernation and gathering in ponds for their breeding season.
- Hedgehogs waking up – These nocturnal creatures are venturing out after winter hibernation – consider creating hedgehog-friendly spaces in your garden!
Whilst all of these wonderful creatures, and many more, are beginning to wake up and reappear around us – this is a great time to see how we can make are shared spaces a little more wildlife friendly!
Getting Your Garden Ready for Spring – The Sustainable Way
Spring is the perfect time to prepare your garden while keeping sustainability in mind. Here are some eco-friendly tips to get started:
- Compost and mulch – Use homemade compost or natural mulch to enrich your soil and reduce waste. Want to know more? Check out of socials for previous series on composting and mulching – what it is, the benefits and how to get started!
- Plant for pollinators – Choose native wildflowers, lavender, and other nectar-rich plants to support bees and butterflies.
- Ditch chemical pesticides – opt for natural pest control methods like companion planting or introducing beneficial insects.
- Harvest rainwater – Set up a rain barrel to collect water for your plants, reducing reliance on mains water.
- Wildlife watering station – you can use a shallow dish or plant pot base, add sand or rocks – enough for something to land or keep out of the water, and then top us with water (could be from your water butt!) – there are so many different ways to help nature and the local wildlife!
- Grow your own food – Start a vegetable patch or herb garden to reduce food miles and enjoy fresh, organic produce.
- Create wildlife-friendly spaces – Add a log pile, birdhouses, or a small pond to encourage biodiversity in your garden – then wait and see who comes along!
A sustainable garden not only benefits the environment but also provides a haven for local wildlife and a more beautiful, thriving space for you to enjoy.
Sustainability is in the details!
At Brooks Estates, sustainability is always at the forefront of how we operate day-to-day and finding ways to incorporate sustainability into our habits is somethings we’re all about and keen to share!
We have been putting together ‘How-to’ guides to reduce your carbon footprint. These are full of handy tips and tricks, for homeowners, landlords, office users, remote workers and commercial landlords.
Topics include:
- Energy-saving home improvements
- Water conservation techniques
- Eco-friendly gardening
- Sustainable shopping habits
Interested to find out more? Get in touch and we can share these with you!
What Our Partners Are Up To
We’re proud to collaborate with amazing local organisations that share our vision for a greener future.
Here’s what they’ve been up to:
Cornwall Wildlife Trust
As one of Cornwall’s leading environmental charities, Cornwall Wildlife Trust works to protect Cornwall’s unique wildlife and wild places.
Their Beaver Guided Walks at Woodland Valley Farm are back and offer a firsthand look at nature-based solutions to flooding and biodiversity loss – a brilliant example of how humans and wildlife can thrive together.
Walks book up fast – check their website for availability.
Explore, learn, and connect with nature in a meaningful way.
Plant One
Plant One is a Community Interest Company focused on getting trees in the ground across Cornwall. Their work restores vital habitats, increases biodiversity, and boosts carbon capture.
They also offer opportunities for individuals, businesses, and landowners to get directly involved in local tree planting efforts.
Visit their website to learn how you can support their mission and help Cornwall grow greener.
Kernow Conservation
This incredible organisation works across Cornwall to raise awareness and restore wildlife through action-based conservation projects, including:
- Reintroducing water voles
- Supporting beaver and osprey populations
- Creating wildlife gardens for local communities
We’re proud to support Kernow Conservation’s efforts to protect Cornwall’s rich biodiversity and make conservation more community-led and hands-on. Want to get involved? You can volunteer, support their projects, or learn more via their website.
Clean Cornwall
Clean Cornwall encourages individuals and groups to take pride in their communities by organising and supporting clean-ups across Cornwall. We are proud to promote their work and engage residents in keeping our local environments clean and beautiful.
You can register your own solo or group litter pick on their website, access resources, and track your impact!
Waterhaul
Waterhaul transforms discarded ocean plastics into useful tools like litter pickers and sunglasses. Their work raises awareness about marine waste and the circular economy. Brooks Estates proudly supports Waterhaul’s mission to protect the coast and make environmental action accessible.
They’re currently launching their Ocean-Positive Litter Picker, made entirely from marine plastic collected in the UK and are hosting a beach cleaning event to do so!
Waterhaul’s Beach Cleaning Event:
Friday, 30th May, 11am-1pm at Watergate Bay.
All welcome – click the link here to sign up to their event!
This is a dog friendly beach and all equipment will be provided!
St Petrocs
Our most recent partnership is with St Petrocs, a charity dedicated to ending homelessness in Cornwall by offering shelter, support, and dignity to those in need.
St Petrocs is not only focused on housing but also on building community, offering practical support, and providing pathways into stable futures.
Click here to find out more about their current projects and see how you can get involved!
Join the Conversation!
We’d love to hear how you’re celebrating spring and sustainability. Share your seasonal tips, wildlife sightings, or eco-friendly projects with us!
Don’t Miss Out – Check Out Our Socials!
Stay connected and be the first to know about our latest sustainability tips, upcoming events, and partner initiatives.
We hope you’re enjoying the season and finding new ways to connect with nature and your community. Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to learn more or get involved.
– The Brooks Estates Team
