Gardeners should put chilli powder in the garden this month - yes, really

Garden enthusiasts are being encouraged to scatter chilli powder in their gardens this October.

While this genius gardening hack may seem strange, the fiery orange spice can play a crucial role in your outdoor area as fall commences.

This is the prime time of year to assist in feeding birds before they hibernate or migrate for winter, and the game-changing tip using chilli powder can safeguard food left out for the birds from being pilfered and consumed by other, less deserving creatures.

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Birds have had a tough year. Gardeners have informally reported seeing significantly fewer birds than usual, a claim supported by real data from the RSPB - over the past forty years, one in six birds has disappeared.

The drastic decrease in insect populations - down by as much as 80 percent in the last two decades due to habitat loss and climate change - is believed to be causing ripple effects throughout the food chain, as birds have far less to eat, putting them at risk of starvation, reports the Express .

That's why gardeners are being asked to do their part for birds and leave bird food out.

However, a major issue with leaving bird food out is that other animals - such as squirrels or foxes - will attempt to snatch it.

This is where the chilli powder comes into play. If you have a birdbath or bird table, or any platform where you leave bird food for the birds (and if you don't have one, consider getting one), then you can leave a combination of peanuts, seeds, mealworms and slices of fruit like apple for birds to feast on.

Bruised apples and pears are a big hit with our feathered friends, and you can even toss in some household leftovers like pastry, cooked rice, and breadcrumbs just keep it to a minimum, the RSPB advises.

However, if you sprinkle everything with chilli powder, you'll make it an exclusive feast for the birds. That's because our winged pals don't mind the spice, while squirrels and foxes can't stand it, ensuring the treats are reserved for the birds.

The RSPB recommends: "When buying bird food, try to get a good mix of peanuts, seeds and live food like mealworms and waxworms."

They also suggest: "Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and Blackbirds. Household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs should only be offered in small amounts occasionally."

And for keeping pesky squirrels at bay, they say: "Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren't bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can't put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone."