GARDENING FOR BIRDS

  Birdwatching is a favorite pastime for many who enjoy gardening and being outdoors, especially here in the Midwest since our warm months are limited, we want to get the most out of them. 

Bird feeders and birdhouses are just one way of attracting birds to your garden, but don’t forget to include trees, shrubs and perennials as well. 

Trees and shrubs provide birds with a place to perch, and dense shrubs give birds shelter from the elements, a place to hide from predators and a cozy place to nest.

Trees and shrubs are home to a variety of insects such as caterpillars, which is a necessary food source for birds.  By attracting birds to your garden, they can help control those pesky insects as well.

Shrubs and perennials that produce seeds, nuts or berries are a great way to attract the birds in your garden.  Birds that live in your area will be attracted to native flowers, shrubs and trees so these would be a great addition to your garden.

There are many plants that attract birds, such as 

Butterfly Bush, Forsythia, Roses and Viburnums

Birds love fruit bearing trees such as Serviceberry, Dogwoods and Crabapples.  Oak trees and Birch trees attract birds too.

Evergreens are a great way to bring birds into the garden, Junipers, Spruce, Pines and Yews are perfect for providing shelter as well as food.

Let’s not forget to provide a water source for our feathered friends like a shallow bird bath or a small pond. Birds enjoy bathing to keep their feathers clean, and they need to stay hydrated, just like we do!

If you want to get started on a garden to attract the birds in your area, make sure you visit with one of our knowledgeable garden specialists to find the right plants for you.