It’s 9/11/2025, and the gardening season is in full swing. I was recently potting up some pepper seedlings, ready to give them a good start for the season, when I made a rather surprising discovery. Nestled right in the soil of one of my little pots was a toad!
At first, I was a bit startled, but mostly, I was charmed. It’s not every day you find a garden resident quite so… solid. This little amphibian had clearly found a cozy, damp spot to hibernate or just take a long nap in my pepper seedling pot.
This got me thinking about all the other unexpected visitors my garden has hosted over the years. From the busy bees that are essential for so many of my plants, to the ladybugs that munch on aphids, to the occasional rabbit that tries to sample my lettuce (we have a truce now, mostly!), my garden is a vibrant ecosystem.
Toads, in particular, are fantastic garden allies. They are natural pest controllers, feasting on slugs, snails, and various insects that can damage plants. They prefer moist, sheltered environments, which is why my pepper pot was such an attractive dwelling.
Why Biodiversity Matters in Your Garden
Finding this toad reminded me of the importance of creating a welcoming environment for a variety of wildlife. A garden rich in biodiversity is generally a healthier and more resilient garden. Different creatures play different roles:
- Pollinators (like bees and butterflies): Essential for fruit and vegetable production.
- Beneficial Insects (like ladybugs and lacewings): Natural predators of garden pests.
- Amphibians (like toads): Help control slug and insect populations.
- Birds: Also great for pest control and can help with seed dispersal.
Creating a Toad-Friendly Garden
If you’re hoping to attract more toads to your garden, here are a few simple things you can do:
- Provide Shelter: Toads love damp, shady places. A small rock garden, a cluster of plants, or even an overturned pot with an entrance can offer them a safe haven.
- Offer Water: A shallow dish of water or a small pond can be a big draw.
- Reduce Pesticide Use: Chemical pesticides can harm toads and reduce their food sources.
- Leave Leaf Litter: In the fall, a layer of leaves can provide overwintering habitat.
It’s a reminder that our gardens are more than just places to grow food; they are living spaces shared with many creatures. It’s a delicate balance, and sometimes, like finding a toad in my pepper pot, nature reminds us in the most delightful ways.
This little guy has since moved on to a more suitable habitat in my garden’s shady corner, but the memory of our surprising encounter has made my gardening journey even richer. It’s these moments that truly connect us to the natural world right outside our doors.