Spring is waking up the world outside our windows—buds are blooming, bees are buzzing, and life feels full of possibility again. One of my favorite little projects this time of year is creating a DIY insect house. It’s simple, purposeful, and a lovely way to invite pollinators and beneficial bugs into your garden space.
Whether you have a backyard, balcony, or sunny windowsill planter, this tiny house can make a big difference.
🐝 Why Make an Insect House?
Insects like solitary bees, ladybugs, lacewings, and beetles help pollinate plants and keep pests in check—but modern yards often leave them without a safe place to rest or lay eggs. Building an insect house provides shelter and supports a thriving, natural ecosystem right where you live.
Plus… it’s adorable.
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
You can build your house from scratch or upcycle materials you already have! Here’s a basic list:
- A small wooden box or old drawer (about 6–10″ deep)
- Natural fillers like:
- Bamboo sticks
- Hollow plant stems
- Pinecones
- Rolled cardboard
- Dry bark or twigs
- Straw or dried grasses
- Chicken wire or mesh (optional, to keep material secure)
- Hammer, nails or wood glue
- Outdoor paint or wood seal (optional)
🌿 How to Build It:
- Start with a frame
Use a wooden box, a drawer, or even stack small crates. Slanted roofs help shed rainwater, but flat-topped works too! - Fill with natural materials
Layer in your sticks, pinecones, bamboo, or rolled cardboard tightly so nothing blows away. Different insects like different textures—diversity is key. - Secure the front (optional)
Stretch a bit of chicken wire across the front to keep things in place, especially if your spot gets windy. - Paint or seal (optional)
If you’d like to paint the exterior, choose non-toxic outdoor paint. Soft earth tones help it blend beautifully into the garden. - Place thoughtfully
Mount or tuck your insect house in a quiet, sunny spot—ideally 3–5 feet off the ground. Avoid placing it in full shade or where water might pool.
🐞 Kid-Friendly Tip:
Let the kids help collect materials or decorate the outside with pressed flowers, painted stones, or their initials. It’s a sweet, hands-on way to teach them about pollinators and the beauty of outdoor stewardship.
Final Thought
Insect houses are a gentle reminder that small acts—like building a home for a bee—can ripple out in beautiful ways. A garden that invites life is one that gives back. So this spring, while you plant and plan, don’t forget to make room for the tiniest visitors too.
If you make your own insect house, I’d love to see it! Tag me @dwelingco and share the love for all things handmade and homegrown.
){kind=link}
Leave a Reply