Easy DIY quadrat for your Big British Garden Survey

Once you have signed up to take part in the Big British Garden Survey you will need a 50cm x 50cm quadrat (simple square frame). This is used during the FIT Count to mark out a patch of flowers and record the number of insects that land inside the boundary over 10 minutes.  

The good news? You don’t need any specialist equipment. A quadrat can be made in just a few minutes using everyday items you already have at home. Get creative with your materials. We would love to see your ideas! 

What you need:  

1. Ruler or tape measure 
2. Materials for the frame such as:  

• Gaffa tape
• Wool or string 
• Ribbon  
• Paper 
• Cardboard strips 
• Straight sticks 
• Pipe cleaners 
• Bamboo canes

 Simple step-by-step 

1. Measure out four lengths of 50cm 
2. Arrange into a square 
3. Secure each corner using tape, ties, or simply putting knots in a piece of string 
4. Place your finished quadrat over a patch of flowers and you’re ready to start counting! 

For more about getting involved with The Big British Garden Survey CLICK HERE