Gardeners urged to get rid of all broken plant pots and stop unwanted visitors

Many Brits will be taking the opportunity to sort some spring cleaning as the improves, but will want to take particular heed of this expert warning.

As green fingered enthusiasts prepare their patches for summer, they have been urged to follow some specific advice to stop unwanted visitors gaining access to their space. Doug O'Connor, wildlife expert at DeerFencing.com, has issued a list of seven garden items which should be removed this spring to freshen up outdoor spaces and even save money.

After winter, many gardens can beome a dumping ground for items which no longer serve a purpose. Doug said: "Most people don't realise how quickl clutter can accumulate in outdoor spaces. This not only makes your garden less enjoyable but can attract unwanted wildlife to your property."

Below is the full list of items Doug warned gardeners to remove before summer:

1. Broken plant pots and containers

As well as being unsightly, cracked plastic pots and containers which have worn away are also potential magnets for wildlife.

Broken pots collect rainwater which remains stagnant, creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes and hiding places for small rodents.

Doug said: "I've visited countless properties where homeowners wonder why they have a rodent problem, only to find dozens of old plant pots stacked behind their shed. These create perfect shelter for mice, which in turn attract snakes and other predators to your garden."

He advised gardeners only to keep the pots they will use this growing season.

Plastic pots in good condition can be sanitised and reused, while broken ones should be recycled if possible. Terracotta pots can be broken up further and used as drainage material in the bottom of larger containers.

2. Old gardening chemicals and fertilisers

Many gardens are littered with half-used bags of fertiliser, weed killer, and pesticides that have long passed their usefulness, taking up space and sometimes posing serious risks.

Doug warned: "Old gardening chemicals can leak or deteriorate, potentially contaminating soil or attracting animals like deer that might be curious about unfamiliar scents. Plus, some of these products become less effective or even potentially harmful after expiration."

Check any use-by dates on garden chemicals and safely dispose of expired products through local waste collection programmes. Never pour chemicals down drains or use regular bins.

3. Unused garden tools and equipment

Rusty shovels, leaking hoses and broken lawnmowers can all be moved out.

Doug said: ""I once visited a client who had four broken lawnmowers in their yard because they 'might fix them someday'. Not only was it visually cluttering their beautiful property, but the old gas and oil were environmental hazards that were attracting wildlife."

He advises being honest about what can and will actually be repaired and used, while tools can be donated to scrap yards and obsolete items recycled.

4. Piles of yard waste

Leaf piles and grass clippings can quickly become problematic wildlife habitats.

"Yard waste piles are basically an invitation for deer and other wildlife to inhabit your property," Doug advised. "They provide shelter and nesting materials, and harbour insects that attract larger animals up the food chain."

Instead, compost materials in a proper, enclosed compost bin, and arrange for disposal of yard waste that cannot be composted.

5. Leftover construction materials

Castoffs from previous building projects are rarely, if ever, used in the end.

Doug's view is clear: "Construction debris provides perfect hiding places for rabbits, groundhogs, and other burrowing animals. Once these animals establish themselves on your property, they'll start damaging your garden plants, and soon larger predators like foxes will follow."

Usable materials can be shared on local marketplace groups, while materials which cannot be donated should be disposed of responsibly.

6. Decorative items past their prime

Wind chimes, faded garden gnomes and rusted metal ornaments can all blight a garden.

"When decorative items deteriorate, they can become hazards," Doug explains. "I've seen deer injured by trying to eat plastic plants or getting caught on broken garden ornaments. And small pieces of these items can be ingested by wildlife or pets."

Be selective about garden decorations and choose quality items that will withstand the elements. For broken items, separate components by material type (plastic, metal, ceramic) and recycle what you can.

7. Old food deposits which attract wildlife

Old bird feeders, rotting fruit from trees and improperly stored pet food are major magnets for wildlife.

"The number one reason deer and other wildlife initially visit residential properties is food," Doug said. "Once they discover easy meals, they'll keep coming back and bringing friends. A single forgotten fruit tree with fallen apples can attract deer from surprising distances."

Clean or replace bird feeders regularly, harvest fruit promptly or remove unmanaged fruit trees, and store pet food in secure containers. If you choose to feed wild birds, position feeders where spilled seed can be easily cleaned up.