How to Attract Birds to your Landscape

Video by Michaela Parker 

I can remember watching the birds at my grandparents’ house growing up. We would sit on the porch swing with a bird identification book in hand, and watch the birds fly up to the bird feeders and bird bath in the yard. If you want to attract birds to your yard, there are easy ways to make it happen. Birds need food, water, and shelter to survive. If you provide those three things in your landscape, the birds will show up! 

1. Provide birds with food.There are many ways to provide a food source to birds. The most affordable and sustainable way is to incorporate trees, shrubs, and perennials into your landscape. Perennials like black-eyed Susan and salvia are great options! If you’re looking to buy shrubs, we’d recommend looking into American beautyberry and hollies. persimmon, wild plum, and crab apple trees will also do the trick! 
2. Provide birds with water.Providing water to these cute creatures can be as easy as putting a hanging water feeder or bowl in your landscape. If you have extra money to spend, you can also look into purchasing a water fountain or bird bath. Another great option is installing a small pond. 
3. Provide birds with shelter.If you want birds to visit your house, you also have to give them a home. Make sure you have a variety of trees, shrubs, and plants in your landscape to provide the proper shelter they need. You can also visit your local garden store to find birdhouses that will add nice curb appeal to your landscape!

While you’re at it, be sure to purchase a bird identification book. You never know what type of bird will show up in your yard!

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Feel free to reach out to our Smart Landscape experts, Bob Brzuszek, Pat Drackett, and Dr. Eddie Smith, with all your landscape questions!