Nature notes

With a ‘butterfly emergency’ in the UK, conservationists are gearing up for this year’s Big Butterfly Count. But what has happened to these insects? And can they – on a wing and a prayer – ever bounce back?

The world's finest share their tips for success

A close observation of the season’s cycles and respect for ecology have been the guiding principles in the development of the garden at Highlands, in the High Weald of East Sussex

Kari-Astri Davies considers the role of women in hosta breeding, and regrets unlucky impulse purchases

The first small tortoiseshell I’ve seen this year has just fluttered past – and my heart soared. This is one of those iconic common and widespread butterfly beauties that reminds me of my childhood ro

When experiencing change in life, it’s wise to turn to nature for guidance. With billions of years of trial and error behind it, nature offers wise lessons on how we can adapt to new and unforeseen ci