Nettles doing their bit for Britain's wildlife

Utica dioica, the stinging nettle, is the bane of the barelegged walker, the off-road runner and every child who has come into contact with the tiny hairs along the stems and leaves, which contain irritating substances, which give the intense itching sting.

If you can put the pain behind you (not literally, of course) you might like to know that more than 100 species of insect, including some of Britain's most colourful butterflies, like the Peacock, live in nettle patches across the country. They need the nettles to be able to thrive and survive.

So that's why Garden Organic, the UK organic growing charity, even set aside a week for people to be nice to nettles The charity wanted to highlight the benefits of the often down-trodden nettle and persuade people to look after the wilder parts of their gardens.

Sally Smith, head of Garden Organic's advisory service, said: "When we are all getting out into our gardens, nurturing our plants and making sure everything looks wonderful, it's important that we spare a thought for our local wildlife and make an effort to preserve their habitat.

"Lots of weeds are beneficial to animals, insects and humans, and nettles are no exception. They can be used to make stews, soups and teas, and once dried, act as a natural anti-histamine.

"They can also b e woven to a fibre similar to flax or hemp as well as being good for your garden as a natural fertiliser and in your compost.

"Why not leave a small area to grow wild and see what interesting creatures you can attract? Or see what interesting uses you can find for your nettles? It's a great way of getting your kids involved in the garden."

For more information on the benefits and uses of nettles and organic gardening, call 02476 308517 or visit

www.gardenorganic.org.uk

YP MAG 20/11/10