Redwings will flock to your garden in winter if you plant 1 thing that's their favourite

As winter approaches, many gardens start to look bare and quiet. But there is one plant that could help bring birds back into your outdoor space. The plant does well in winter and provides food for redwings - birds that visit the UK between October and March. They often appear in large groups during cold weather and are drawn to gardens that offer shelter and berries.

This one plant can make a big difference. It's easy to grow, supports wildlife, and is low maintenance. But despite all that, many people overlook it. Experts say planting it now could give redwings a reliable food source through winter, and give you a better chance of spotting them.

The plant is hawthorn, which grows white or pink flowers in spring and bright red berries in autumn and winter.

These berries are a favourite of redwings when other food is hard to find.

According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), redwings rely on berries like hawthorn's when insects are scarce.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) also says hawthorn is one of the best trees for attracting wildlife to your garden.

What's more, experts at Love the Garden describe hawthorn as "one of the most valuable native trees for wildlife".

Its berries feed birds, while the dense branches give them shelter.

Hawthorn can be grown as a tree or a hedge and is suitable for most gardens.

It's hardy, copes with poor soil and air pollution, and only needs light pruning once established.

While it can grow up to 12 metres if left, it can also be kept much smaller with regular care.

It's best to plant hawthorn in autumn while the soil is still soft. This gives the roots time to settle before spring.

It also grows at a steady pace and can live for many years.

If planted as a hedge, it can help add privacy and keep pets in thanks to its strong, thorny branches.

But because of the thorns, it's best to avoid placing it next to paths or play areas.

Redwings are slightly smaller than blackbirds and have a pale chest with a clear red patch under each wing.

You'll often see them feeding on the ground or perched in bushes, especially when snow or frost sets in.

Planting hawthorn now could help give these birds the food and shelter they need, and give you something to enjoy in your garden this winter.