An expert has shared a warning about a common product that should be avoided in gardens. Little you may know, it can cause some damage without you even realising
Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor
13:33, 26 Dec 2025Updated 13:34, 26 Dec 2025
There’s a product you may want to avoid using outdoors (stock image)(Image: Alena Ivochkina via Getty Images)
While many of us enjoy tending to our gardens, UK households have been advised against placing a specific item outdoors for the sake of bird welfare. A common product used in gardens could be causing more harm than good, according to an expert.
David Fryer, Head of Technical at Mr Fothergill’s, recently shared some surprising information that gardeners need to be aware of. Many people use this particular product outdoors, but he advises complete avoidance to ensure the safety of wildlife.
It appears that the use of eco sprays outdoors should be avoided as they can cause significant damage without being noticed. According to expert advice, there are some things you need to know.
David stated: “Even natural or ‘eco’ sprays can harm the insects and birds you want to encourage. Instead, let your garden’s ecosystem do the work.
“A wildlife-friendly garden naturally attracts predators that manage pests, such as ladybirds, hoverflies and lacewings, reducing the need for chemicals altogether.”
What is an eco spray?
An eco spray is a pesticide made from natural, plant-based ingredients. It’s designed to control pests without harming the environment or beneficial insects. These sprays are commonly used in organic gardening and are safe for use on edible plants.
These sprays utilise components such as plant-derived oils and soaps to eliminate pests. Some also contain additional natural deterrents like garlic or pepper.
They are typically formulated to be safe for beneficial insects such as bees and household pets. Certain products are also suitable for use on fruits and vegetables right until harvest, as they require no withholding period.
Nevertheless, these sprays can prove harmful to birds. Despite being manufactured with natural components, birds possess extremely sensitive respiratory systems that are susceptible to airborne particles and chemical vapours from any spray product.
Regardless of the product’s composition, it still has the potential to harm birds. Birds may directly consume residues if they perch on or feed from recently treated plants or drink contaminated water. The products can present danger in several ways.
How can you support wildlife?
David explained: “Once your summer blooms have faded, you can still bring colour and food back into your beds with autumn-flowering plants. Late bloomers such as Japanese anemones, asters, chrysanthemums, rudbeckia, sedum and Michaelmas daisies offer bursts of colour when pollinators need it most.
“By keeping nectar and pollen sources available late into the year, you’ll help bees and butterflies build up reserves.”
Discussing planting options, he continued: “Native hedging plants such as hawthorn provide berries in winter and nesting cover in spring. Shrubs like holly and viburnum are reliable berry producers, too.
“For blooms across the seasons, mix spring bulbs like crocus and snowdrops with summer-flowering herbs and autumn favourites such as ivy and sedum, ensuring year-round sustenance for pollinators.”
There are numerous methods to maintain your garden’s appeal throughout winter, whilst also supporting local wildlife. All it takes is adherence to a few straightforward guidelines.
Comments are closed.