Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping: Designing Gardens That Support Local Biodiversity

Wildlife-friendly landscaping is the deliberate design and management of residential and institutional green spaces to provide food, water, shelter, and breeding sites for native animals. This approach moves beyond ornamental gardening by prioritizing plant species that support local food webs, reducing chemical inputs, and creating habitat structure that mimics natural ecosystems. For students, researchers, life-science professionals, and informed gardeners, this guide translates ecological research into practical design decisions. The evidence base draws from peer-reviewed studies on urban biodiversity, pollinator conservation, and habitat connectivity, with emphasis on what works in real gardens instead of idealized landscapes.

At a Glance

The table below summarizes the core design elements of wildlife-friendly landscaping, the evidence supporting each element, and the practical actions gardeners can take.

Understanding Urban Biodiversity and Garden Context

Urbanization fundamentally alters ecological communities. Research on seed dispersal networks in Tenerife Island found that urban areas supported half the species richness of fleshy-fruited plants and frugivorous animals compared to natural forests. The same study documented that non-native plants accounted for 61% of frugivore interactions in urban areas versus 15% in forests, and that six frugivorous species completely avoided urban areas, which acted as barriers to dispersal. These findings demonstrate that gardens are not isolated from broader landscape processes. Every planting decision either supports or fragments the ecological networks that sustain urban wildlife.

The conservation value of urban green spaces varies by type. A systematic review of cemeteries across 50 cities in 27 countries found that cemetery conservation value was similar to urban parks, with cemeteries hosting slightly higher proportions of native species than botanical gardens and institutional green spaces. However, parks had significantly higher proportions of unique species (21.9% versus 14.2%). Natural remnants and botanical gardens supported higher species richness than cemeteries. For gardeners, this means that even small residential plots contribute to urban biodiversity, but the quality of habitat matters more than the simple presence of green space.

Residential gardens cover substantial portions of urban landscapes. Research in Melbourne, Australia compared wildlife gardens, control gardens, and remnant vegetation and found that vegetation diversity was higher in both garden types than in remnants, while the proportion of native vegetation was higher in wildlife gardens and remnants than in control gardens. Bee diversity was higher in wildlife gardens and remnants than in control gardens, though each habitat type supported different bee species. Wildlife gardens supported more above-ground nesting species while remnants supported more below-ground nesters. This suggests that landscape mosaics containing both habitat types maximize bee diversity at the landscape scale.

Core Principles of Wildlife-Friendly Garden Design

Native Plants as the Foundation

Native plants form the backbone of wildlife-friendly landscaping because they have co-evolved with local fauna. A three-year garden experiment in Corvallis, Oregon examined pollinator visitation to Pacific Northwest native plants and their cultivars. Native plants were preferred over cultivars in 37.2% of comparisons, cultivars were preferred in 7.7%, and there was no difference in 55.1% of comparisons. Native plants had greater observed total pollinator richness and bee richness than cultivars. Specialist bees were collected more often from wild-type plants. Cultivars with high visitation rates were minimally developed selections instead of interspecific hybrids.

The same research program examined floral traits and bee communities. Nine out of ten tested cultivars had dissimilar bee communities to their native plant counterparts. No plants in the study were bred for nectar or pollen traits, so changes in floral rewards were likely unintended side effects of breeding for ornamental characteristics. Minimally developed cultivars were associated with similar bee species and functional traits to wild-type plants. The researchers concluded that plants with phenotypes consistent with wild-type plants should be emphasized in plantings to maximize potential benefits to pollinators.

For gardeners, the practical implication is clear. When selecting plants, prioritize wild-type native species sourced from local ecotypes. If cultivars are necessary due to availability or site constraints, choose minimally developed selections instead of heavily bred varieties or interspecific hybrids. Avoid cultivars bred for novel flower colors, double petals, or other ornamental traits that may reduce nectar and pollen accessibility.

Structural Diversity and Habitat Complexity

Wildlife requires more than food plants. Shelter, nesting sites, and safe movement corridors are equally important. The Melbourne study found that wildlife gardens and remnants had similar numbers but different suites of bee species, with each habitat type missing key habitat elements. Wildlife gardens supported more above-ground nesting species, suggesting that gardens often lack the bare soil and ground-nesting opportunities found in natural areas.

Design gardens with multiple vegetation layers. Include canopy trees, understory shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and ground covers. Leave some areas unmown to provide cover for ground-dwelling wildlife. Retain dead wood, leaf litter, and standing dead trees where safe to do so. These features provide nesting sites for cavity-nesting bees, shelter for invertebrates, and foraging habitat for birds and small mammals.

Habitat Connectivity and Garden Boundaries

Property boundaries pose significant problems for terrestrial wildlife with limited climbing abilities. Research on the West European hedgehog found that the species has declined markedly in the UK but remains common in residential gardens. The Hedgehog Street campaign recruited volunteers to create access points across garden boundaries. Householders were more likely to create a highway if they were already aware of the campaign, if their garden contained many wildlife-friendly features, and if they considered watching wildlife important. However, most highways were created in boundaries that could already be traversed via naturally occurring holes. Only 11.4% of garden boundaries could be traversed just via a hedgehog highway, and only 5.0% of gardens were considered totally inaccessible to hedgehogs.

The most common reasons for not creating highways were that gardens were already accessible and concerns about boundary ownership or communicating with neighbors. For gardeners, this research suggests that habitat connectivity requires coordination beyond individual property lines. Talk to neighbors about creating gaps in shared boundaries. Prioritize ground-level access points for species like hedgehogs that cannot climb or fly. Consider the broader neighborhood context when planning wildlife habitat.

Plant Selection Checklist by Region

Plant selection should be guided by local ecology instead of generic lists. The following checklist provides a framework for evaluating plant choices in any region.

Step 1: Identify Your Ecoregion

Determine your USDA hardiness zone, precipitation patterns, soil type, and native plant communities. Local cooperative extension services, native plant societies, and botanical gardens can provide region-specific guidance. The Pacific Northwest research demonstrates that regional differences matter. Plants native to one area may be invasive or poorly adapted in another.

Step 2: Prioritize Keystone Species

Keystone plants support disproportionately large numbers of herbivores and pollinators. Oaks, willows, cherries, and native goldenrods are examples of genera that support many insect species. Research on native diversity and non-native tree invasions found that higher native diversity predicts lower invasion severity. Dense, diverse native plantings resist invasion better than sparse or monoculture plantings.

Step 3: Select for Bloom Phenology

Choose plants that provide nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. Early spring bloomers support emerging queen bumblebees. Late-season bloomers provide resources for migrating butterflies and overwintering insects. The urban flower meadow research found that the proportion of yellow flowers influenced human perception positively, but for wildlife, diversity of flower colors and shapes matters more than any single color.

Step 4: Include Host Plants

Butterflies and moths require specific host plants for their larvae. Monarch butterflies need milkweed species. Many specialist bees require pollen from specific plant genera. The Pacific Northwest research found that specialist bees were collected more often from wild-type plants than from cultivars. Including host plants for local specialist species is essential for supporting complete life cycles.

Step 5: Verify Native Status

Use standardized terminology when evaluating plant sources. Invasion science has proposed a streamlined framework distinguishing non-native species (transported beyond their natural range), established non-native species (with self-sustaining populations), and invasive non-native species (spreading rapidly). When purchasing plants, verify that they are native to your specific region instead of merely native to your country or continent. Some native plant cultivars are bred from plants collected far from your area and may not support local pollinators.

Water Sources and Wildlife Hydration

Water is a critical resource that is often overlooked in wildlife garden design. Urban areas frequently lack natural water sources, and providing reliable water can attract a wide range of species. The Tenerife study documented that urbanization simplified seed dispersal networks and reduced interaction diversity. Water availability influences which species can persist in urban environments.

Design water features with wildlife safety in mind. Shallow dishes with gradual edges allow insects and small mammals to drink without drowning. Place a few stones or twigs in the water to provide landing spots for bees and butterflies. Keep water sources clean and refill them regularly, especially during dry periods. In colder climates, provide heated water sources during winter or break ice daily.

For birds, a water source with a rough surface and shallow depth is preferable to deep, smooth-sided birdbaths. Ground-level water features benefit hedgehogs, amphibians, and other terrestrial wildlife. If space allows, create a small pond with native aquatic plants. Ponds support dragonflies, amphibians, and a range of invertebrates that are otherwise absent from urban gardens.

Shelter and Nesting Habitat

Natural Shelter Features

Wildlife needs places to hide from predators, escape weather, and raise young. Dense shrubs, brush piles, rock piles, and log piles provide essential cover. Leave leaf litter in garden beds instead of raking it away. Leaf litter supports invertebrates that birds and other predators consume. Dead wood is particularly valuable. Many native bees nest in dead stems and branches. Cavity-nesting birds require standing dead trees or nest boxes.

Artificial Nesting Structures

Nest boxes can supplement natural nesting sites, particularly in gardens where standing dead trees are absent. Different species require different box designs. Bluebirds, chickadees, and wrens need boxes with specific entrance hole sizes and interior dimensions. Bat boxes provide roosting sites for insectivorous bats. Bee hotels support cavity-nesting bees, though they require maintenance to prevent parasite buildup.

The Melbourne research found that wildlife gardens supported more above-ground nesting bees than remnants, suggesting that gardens provide nesting opportunities that natural areas lack. However, the same study found that wildlife gardens and remnants supported different bee species, indicating that each habitat type is missing key elements. Gardeners should provide both above-ground nesting opportunities (dead stems, bee hotels) and below-ground nesting habitat (bare soil, sandy patches).

Hedgehog and Small Mammal Shelter

Hedgehogs require dense vegetation for daytime nesting and hibernation. Brush piles, log piles, and undisturbed corners of the garden provide suitable habitat. The hedgehog connectivity research found that gardens with many wildlife-friendly features were more likely to have hedgehog highways created. Gardeners should leave some areas undisturbed throughout the year, particularly in autumn when hedgehogs are preparing for hibernation.

Sustainable Lawn Alternatives

Reducing Mowing Frequency

Traditional lawns provide minimal wildlife habitat. Frequent mowing prevents flowering and removes structural diversity. Reducing mowing frequency allows grasses and broadleaf plants to flower, supporting pollinators and other invertebrates. The urban flower meadow research found that urban flower meadows evoke positive emotions regardless of respondent age, gender, or place of origin. Fewer colors and the absence of alien plant species shift perception towards less positive emotions, while the dominance of yellow flowers evokes positive emotions.

Converting Lawn to Meadow

Converting portions of lawn to native meadow is a practical way to increase wildlife habitat. Site preparation is critical. Remove existing turf and competitive weeds before planting. Choose native grasses and wildflowers adapted to your soil and moisture conditions. Expect the meadow to take two to three years to establish fully. During establishment, control weeds through mowing or hand removal. Once established, mow once per year in late winter or early spring to prevent woody encroachment.

Clover and Flowering Ground Covers

For areas that must remain walkable, consider replacing turf with flowering ground covers. White clover supports pollinators and fixes nitrogen. Creeping thyme tolerates light foot traffic and provides nectar. Native ground covers such as wild strawberry and violets support specialist insects while providing green cover. These alternatives require less water and mowing than traditional turf.

Leaving Lawn Margins Unmown

A simple approach is to leave the margins of existing lawns unmown. This creates a transition zone between mown turf and garden beds. Unmown margins provide habitat for grass-nesting insects, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds. Mow these areas once or twice per year to prevent woody encroachment.

Practical Implementation Steps

Step 1: Assess Your Current Garden

Conduct a baseline assessment of your garden before making changes. Map the existing vegetation, noting which plants are native and which are non-native. Identify areas of bare soil, dense vegetation, and open lawn. Note any existing wildlife use, including bird sightings, insect activity, and evidence of mammals. Photograph the garden to track changes over time.

Step 2: Set Priorities Based on Local Context

Not every garden can provide every habitat element. Prioritize based on your local context. If your neighborhood lacks mature trees, prioritize tree planting. If nearby natural areas provide woodland habitat, focus on open meadow or edge habitat. The cemetery research found that different urban green space types support different species. Gardens embedded in different landscape contexts should play different roles.

Step 3: Start with Native Plantings

Begin by replacing the most ecologically barren areas of your garden. A border of non-native shrubs provides little wildlife value. Replace it with a layered native planting that includes canopy, understory, and ground cover species. Choose plants that provide resources across multiple seasons. Include host plants for local specialist insects.

Step 4: Add Water and Shelter Features

Install a water source early in the process. Water attracts wildlife quickly and provides immediate benefits. Add shelter features such as brush piles, log piles, and nest boxes. These features are inexpensive and can be installed in a single session.

Step 5: Reduce Chemical Inputs

Eliminate synthetic pesticides and herbicides. The fire ant management research reviewed natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides, including plant-derived compounds. The tick control research found that essential oils and isolated compounds show promise as alternatives to synthetic acaricides, though efficacy results are difficult to evaluate due to lack of standardization. For most garden pests, physical removal, beneficial insect conservation, and tolerance of minor damage are preferable to chemical intervention.

Step 6: Create Connectivity

Identify barriers to wildlife movement in your garden. Gaps in fences, walls, and hedges allow ground-dwelling wildlife to move between properties. Coordinate with neighbors to create a network of accessible gardens. The hedgehog research found that most garden boundaries were already accessible to hedgehogs, but creating intentional access points increases connectivity.

Step 7: Monitor and Adapt

Wildlife gardening is an iterative process. Monitor which species visit your garden and which plants are most used. Keep records of plant performance and wildlife observations. Adjust your plantings and management practices based on what you observe. The Melbourne research found that residents who created wildlife gardens achieved their aims of supporting more wildlife compared to control gardens, but the specific outcomes varied by garden.

Records and Measurements

Systematic record-keeping helps gardeners evaluate the effectiveness of their wildlife-friendly landscaping efforts. The following measurements provide useful data.

Plant Performance Records

Record the establishment success, growth rate, and flowering duration of each native plant species. Note which plants attract the most pollinators and which fail to thrive. This information guides future plant selection and helps identify plants that are poorly adapted to your specific site conditions.

Wildlife Observation Logs

Maintain a log of wildlife sightings, including species, date, time, and location within the garden. Note behavioral observations such as nesting, foraging, and mating. The Pacific Northwest research used standardized observation methods to compare pollinator visitation across plant species. Gardeners can use similar methods, conducting timed observations of flowering plants and recording the number and type of visitors.

Pollinator Visitation Counts

Count pollinator visits to individual plants during peak flowering. Conduct counts at consistent times of day and for consistent durations. Record the number of bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other pollinators observed. This data allows comparison of plant species and cultivars. The Pacific Northwest research found that native plants were preferred over cultivars in 37.2% of comparisons, but this varied by plant species and pollinator group.

Habitat Connectivity Assessment

Map the access points in your garden boundaries. Record which boundaries are permeable to ground-dwelling wildlife and which are barriers. The hedgehog research found that only 11.4% of garden boundaries could be traversed just via a hedgehog highway, and only 5.0% of gardens were considered totally inaccessible. Regular assessment of boundary permeability helps identify connectivity improvements.

Seasonal Maintenance Calendar

Develop a seasonal maintenance calendar that aligns with wildlife needs. Avoid pruning during bird nesting season. Delay autumn cleanup to allow overwintering insects to complete their life cycles. Mow meadows in late winter after seeds have dispersed. The calendar should balance wildlife needs with practical garden management.

Common Failure Patterns

Failure Pattern 1: Overreliance on Cultivars

Gardeners who purchase heavily bred cultivars instead of wild-type native plants may inadvertently reduce pollinator habitat quality. The Pacific Northwest research found that nine out of ten tested cultivars had dissimilar bee communities to their native plant counterparts. Cultivars bred for novel ornamental traits may have reduced nectar and pollen rewards. Avoid cultivars with double flowers, novel colors, or other traits that deviate significantly from wild-type plants.

Failure Pattern 2: Insufficient Plant Diversity

Gardens with few plant species support few wildlife species. The Tenerife research found that urban areas supported half the species richness of fleshy-fruited plants and frugivorous animals relative to natural forests. Gardens should include a diversity of plant families, growth forms, and bloom periods. Monocultures of any single species, native or not, provide limited habitat value.

Failure Pattern 3: Fragmented Habitat Patches

Small, isolated habitat patches support fewer species than connected habitat networks. The hedgehog research demonstrated that garden boundaries limit movement of ground-dwelling wildlife. Gardens that are isolated from neighboring green spaces provide less value than gardens connected through access points and corridors. Coordinate with neighbors to create connected habitat networks.

Failure Pattern 4: Chemical Dependency

Routine use of pesticides and herbicides eliminates the insects that form the base of urban food webs. The fire ant management research reviewed natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides, and the tick control research evaluated essential oils and isolated compounds. However, the most effective approach is to design gardens that support natural pest regulation through diverse plantings and beneficial insect conservation.

Failure Pattern 5: Ignoring Non-Native Invasive Species

Non-native invasive species can degrade habitat quality and spread into natural areas. The Tenerife research found that non-native plants were highly used by native frugivores, accounting for 61% of interactions in urban areas. This creates a risk that generalist frugivores will spread non-native species from urban areas into forests. Gardeners should remove invasive non-native species and replace them with native alternatives.

Failure Pattern 6: Neglecting Ground-Level Habitat

Many gardeners focus on plants and ignore ground-level habitat features. Bare soil, leaf litter, dead wood, and undisturbed areas provide essential habitat for ground-nesting bees, invertebrates, and small mammals. The Melbourne research found that wildlife gardens supported more above-ground nesting bees than remnants, suggesting that ground-nesting habitat is often missing from gardens.

Limitations and Professional Escalation Criteria

Limitations of Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping

Wildlife-friendly landscaping has limits. Individual gardens cannot replace natural habitats, particularly for species with large home ranges or specialized habitat requirements. The cemetery research found that natural remnants and botanical gardens supported higher species richness than cemeteries or parks. Some species, including six frugivorous species in the Tenerife study, completely avoided urban areas regardless of garden quality.

Gardeners should also recognize that some wildlife-friendly practices have tradeoffs. Leaving leaf litter and dead wood may be perceived as untidy by neighbors. Reduced mowing may conflict with homeowner association rules or municipal ordinances. Native plantings may take several years to establish and may not provide immediate visual impact.

When to Consult Professionals

Consult a professional in the following situations. If you are managing a large property or institutional landscape, a restoration ecologist or landscape architect with native plant expertise can help design effective habitat. If you encounter invasive species that are difficult to control, a professional can recommend appropriate management strategies. If you are planning a pond or wetland feature, a professional can advise on design, safety, and regulatory requirements.

For gardeners managing specific wildlife conflicts, professional advice may be needed. The robotic lawn mower research found that some models may injure hedgehogs, while others are not harmful. If you use a robotic mower and have hedgehogs in your garden, consult the manufacturer's guidance and consider timing mowing to avoid active periods. The research designed a standardized safety test to measure the effect of specific mower models on hedgehogs.

Regulatory Context

Wildlife-friendly landscaping may be subject to local regulations. Some municipalities restrict the height of vegetation in front yards. Homeowner associations may have design guidelines that limit native plantings or require maintained turf. Before making major changes, check local ordinances and association rules. Some jurisdictions offer incentives for wildlife-friendly landscaping, including native plant rebates and stormwater credits.

Welfare and Safety Context

Wildlife Safety

Wildlife-friendly gardens should not create hazards for the animals they intend to support. Water features should have gradual edges and escape routes. Netting used to protect crops can entangle birds and small mammals. The robotic lawn mower research found that some models may injure hedgehogs, with larger hedgehogs less likely to be injured and height being the most influential measure of size. Gardeners using robotic mowers should operate them during daylight hours when hedgehogs are less active and inspect the garden before mowing.

Human Safety

Some wildlife-friendly practices have implications for human safety. Dense vegetation can provide cover for ticks, which transmit diseases. The tick control research reviewed essential oils and isolated compounds as alternatives to synthetic acaricides, noting that no adverse reactions were observed in 86.6% of studies evaluating clinical safety, but studies regarding toxicity in non-target species and residues are scarce. Gardeners in tick-prone areas should create buffer zones between dense vegetation and frequently used areas, and should check for ticks after gardening.

Fire ants pose a significant threat to public health and a danger to livestock, pets, and wildlife due to their venomous stings. The fire ant management research reviewed natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Gardeners in fire ant areas should identify and manage fire ant colonies, using appropriate methods for their region.

Responsible Wildlife Interaction

Wildlife-friendly gardens attract animals, but gardeners should maintain appropriate boundaries. Do not feed wildlife in ways that create dependency or habituation. Keep domestic cats indoors or supervised to prevent predation on birds and small mammals. The hedgehog research found that watching wildlife was an important motivation for creating wildlife-friendly gardens, but responsible observation means minimizing disturbance to nesting and foraging animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between native plants and native cultivars for wildlife habitat?

Native plants are wild-type plants that occur naturally in a region. Native cultivars are selections bred from native plants, often for ornamental traits. Research in the Pacific Northwest found that native plants were preferred over cultivars in 37.2% of pollinator visitation comparisons, and native plants had greater observed total pollinator richness and bee richness than cultivars. Specialist bees were collected more often from wild types. Cultivars with high visitation rates were minimally developed selections instead of interspecific hybrids. Choose wild-type native plants when available, and select minimally developed cultivars only when wild types are unavailable.

How much lawn should I convert to wildlife habitat?

There is no single threshold that applies to all gardens. The optimal amount depends on your property size, local context, and personal priorities. Research from Melbourne found that wildlife gardens supported higher bee diversity than control gardens, but wildlife gardens and remnants supported different bee species. Even small changes, such as leaving lawn margins unmown or converting a border to native plantings, provide habitat value. Start with the least used areas of your lawn and expand based on your observations and priorities.

Will wildlife-friendly landscaping attract pests or dangerous animals?

Wildlife-friendly gardens attract a diversity of species, including some that gardeners may consider pests. Dense vegetation can provide habitat for ticks, and fire ants may colonize undisturbed areas. However, diverse native plantings also support natural pest regulation. The tick control research reviewed essential oils and isolated compounds as alternatives to synthetic acaricides, and the fire ant research reviewed natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Manage specific pest concerns through targeted interventions instead of broad-spectrum chemical applications.

How do I create habitat connectivity with neighboring gardens?

Start by talking to your neighbors about creating access points in shared boundaries. The hedgehog research found that the most common reasons for not creating highways were that gardens were already accessible and concerns about boundary ownership or communicating with neighbors. Create gaps of approximately 13 centimeters square at ground level in fences and walls. Coordinate with neighbors to create a network of accessible gardens. The research found that only 11.4% of garden boundaries could be traversed just via a hedgehog highway, so most gardens already have some natural connectivity.

What should I do about non-native invasive plants in my garden?

Remove invasive non-native species and replace them with native alternatives. The Tenerife research found that non-native plants were highly used by native frugivores, accounting for 61% of interactions in urban areas. This creates a risk that generalist frugivores will spread non-native species from urban areas into natural habitats. The invasion science framework distinguishes non-native species, established non-native species, and invasive non-native species. Prioritize removal of invasive non-native species that spread rapidly and displace native vegetation.

How long does it take for a wildlife garden to become established?

Native plantings typically take two to three years to establish fully. Perennials may spend the first year developing root systems before significant top growth. Meadows require regular weed control during establishment. The Pacific Northwest research was conducted over three years, allowing time for plant establishment and pollinator community development. Monitor your garden regularly and adjust management practices based on plant performance and wildlife observations.

Can I have a wildlife-friendly garden and still grow vegetables?

Yes. Wildlife-friendly practices can be integrated with food production. Plant native flowers near vegetable beds to attract pollinators. Use physical barriers and beneficial insect conservation instead of broad-spectrum pesticides. The Good Garden book addresses how to nurture pollinators, soil, native wildlife, and healthy food in the same space. Leave some areas of the garden undisturbed for wildlife while maintaining productive vegetable beds.

What are the most important things to do for pollinators in a small garden?

Prioritize native plants with overlapping bloom periods to provide nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. Include host plants for specialist pollinators. Provide nesting habitat, including bare soil for ground-nesting bees and dead stems for cavity-nesting bees. Eliminate pesticides. The Pacific Northwest research found that wild-type native plants and minimally developed plants should be emphasized for supporting pollinator fauna. Even small gardens can support diverse pollinator communities when designed with these principles.

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References and Further Reading

• NCBI Literature Resources. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
• PubMed. National Library of Medicine.
• Urbanization of seed dispersal networks.. Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology, 2025.
• Taming the terminological tempest in invasion science.. Biological reviews of the Cambridge Philosophical Society, 2024.
• Pacific Northwest native plants and native cultivars, part I: pollinator visitation.. Environmental entomology, 2025.
• Assessing the conservation value of cemeteries to urban biota worldwide.. Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology, 2024.
• Native diversity buffers against severity of non-native tree invasions.. Nature, 2023.
• Pacific Northwest native plants and native cultivars part II: plant and pollinator traits.. Environmental entomology, 2025.
• Cues to care: Promptings of nature.. Explore (New York, N.Y.), 2023.
• Extinction risk of the endemic vascular flora of Kauai, Hawaii, based on IUCN assessments.. Conservation biology : the journal of the Society for Conservation Biology, 2022.
• Testing the Impact of Robotic Lawn Mowers on European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) and Designing a Safety Test.. 2023.
• The impact of urban flower meadows on the well-being of city dwellers provides hints for planning biophilic green spaces.. 2025.
• Understandings and Perceived Benefits of Outdoor-Based Support for People Living with Dementia.. 2024.
• Analysis of Marine Microplastic Pollution of Disposable Masks under COVID-19 Epidemic-A DPSIR Framework.. 2022.
• Evaluation of the in vitro acaricidal effect of five organic compounds on the cattle fever tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae).. 2023.
• Essential oils and isolated compounds for tick control: advances beyond the laboratory.. 2023.
• Naturally Occurring Compounds/Materials as Alternatives to Synthetic Chemical Insecticides for Use in Fire Ant Management.. 2020.
• Lagos Bat Virus, an Under-Reported Rabies-Related Lyssavirus.. 2021.
• An assessment of a conservation strategy to increase garden connectivity for hedgehogs that requires cooperation between immediate neighbours: A barrier too far?. PLoS ONE, 2021.
• A Re-Examination of the Validity of the “Separative and Exclusive Conservation Model”: Insights from an Ethnobiological Study in Maluku, East Indonesia. Tropical Forests - New Edition, 2018.
• Urban Nature Gardens at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County attract “wildlife spectacle” of insect pollinators. 2018.
• Urban wildlife gardeners successfully support native bees in their backyards. Urban Ecosystems, 2026.
• Using native plants to create pollinator habitat in southwest Oregon: lessons learned. 2018.
• Restoring Habitat in Densely-Populated Suburbs in the Northeast: A Demonstration Project. 2016.
• Urban domestic gardens (IX): Composition and richness of the vascular plant flora, and implications for native biodiversity. Biological Conservation, 2006.
• Australian native gardens: Is there scope for a community shift?. Landscape and Urban Planning, 2017.
• Creating outdoor classrooms: Schoolyard habitats and gardens for the Southwest. Creating Outdoor Classrooms Schoolyard Habitats and Gardens for the Southwest, 2008.
• The Good Garden: How to Nurture Pollinators, Soil, Native Wildlife, and Healthy Food-All in Your Own Backyard. Good Garden how to Nurture Pollinators Soil Native Wildlife and Healthy Foodall in Your Own Backyard, 2023.

This article is educational and does not replace institutional policy, professional advice, or applicable safety and regulatory requirements.