Let it Be: Messy Gardens are Needed Too

Across the U.S., citizen-science monitoring and everyday observations point to a troubling trend: insect populations are declining. Habitat loss, fragmented landscapes, and widespread chemical use are key drivers.

Many people recognize this through the so-called “windshield phenomenon.” Twenty-five years ago, a single evening drive might leave a car windshield splattered with insects. Today, that’s far less common.

This matters. Insects provide essential ecosystem services—pollinating plants, feeding wildlife, and keeping other insect populations in check. A conservative Cornell University estimate places their economic contribution at more than $57 billion annually. When insects disappear, so do many of these benefits: fewer pollinators, less food for birds, and more pests left uncontrolled.

Gardens Matter Year-Round

Boosting habitat diversity is one of the best ways to help insects. Backyard and community gardens, already valuable during the growing season, can be just as important in winter. Dead stems, fallen leaves, and undisturbed soil provide “overwintering” spots where beneficial insects—from swallowtail butterflies to katydids—hibernate or lay eggs.

How to Prep Your Garden for Winter Habitat
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When fall clean-up rolls around, a lighter touch can go a long way. Here’s a straightforward approach:

1. Remove only diseased plants. Burn, compost properly, or dispose of plants that showed disease this season.
2. Leave most plants standing. Many insects shelter in stems, soil, and leaf litter. Plus, seedheads feed birds and protect soil from erosion.
3. Handle weeds selectively. Pull or cut only weeds that have gone to seed or are invasive. Consider piling them nearby until spring to preserve some cover.
4. Sow a winter cover crop. Rye, oats, clover, hairy vetch, or oilseed radish improve soil health and add extra shelter for insects.
5. Show your intention. If appearances worry you, post a small sign explaining that your “messy” garden is an intentional wildlife habitat.
6. Add fallen leaves. Spread leaves from your lawn as a protective mulch. They enrich the soil and provide more insect shelter.
7. Wait until spring to clean up. After several days above 50 °F—enough time for overwintering insects to emerge—it’s safe to start planting again.

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