Gardeners urge to put a penny in their birdbaths

This simple trick could help attract more wildlife to your garden while also keeping it clean.

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Birdbaths not only add a decorative element to gardens but also help attract an array of birds for wildlife enthusiasts to marvel at from the comfort of their homes. But anyone with a birdbath knows that it rarely takes long for dirt and grime to build up. Luckily, there is one solution that can help reduce the build-up of algae and ensure that baths are a welcoming, clean place for birds to enjoy - and it only costs 1p.

The genius way to fight off birdbath grime is by placing a 1p copper coin in the middle. First, clean the birdbath thoroughly with soapy water. Once that's done, a copper coin will prevent algae from spreading as quickly.



Copper is an algicide, meaning birdbaths will stay clean much longer with a coin placed in the centre. Sam Stevens, garden design expert at Pergolux UK, said: “Spring is on its way, and a lot of people will be looking at their gardens and getting them ready for brighter and longer days ahead. “Cleaning the garden doesn’t have to be an expensive job at all.

We all love a cheap and cheerful hack and the good news is that there are plenty of items you’ll already have in your home that can be used in the garden. “Whether you need to buff away stains, achieve a streak-free finish on glass or get rid of rust, there will be something in your house for everything.” Lucy Taylor, bird expert for Vine House Farm, added: "Clean bird baths daily and allow them to air dry before refilling.

"The drying process helps ensure that the Trichomonosis parasite does not survive.".