Top Plants for Attracting Birds to Your Garden
Gardeners and bird enthusiasts alike are rejoicing as experts reveal the best plants for attracting feathered friends. Ornamental grasses and fruit trees are among the top choices, offering both aesthetic appeal and vital sustenance for our avian companions.
Sophie King, a renowned horticulturist, suggests planting sunflowers, millet, and nyjer seeds in spring. These plants are prolific seed producers, drawing birds and ensuring a steady food supply. Sunflowers, in particular, are easy to grow and provide ample seeds that last well into winter.
For those who prefer ornamental grasses, Panicum varieties are an excellent choice. Panicum 'Frosted Explosion' and Panicum millaceum 'Violaceum' produce small seeds, favored by wrens. Meanwhile, Panicum 'Sparkling Fountain' offers decorative purple seedheads that attract a variety of birds. Additionally, Amaranthus hypochondriacus 'Pygmy Torch' serves as a vibrant pot filler or vase companion, with deep-crimson flowers that eventually give way to bird-friendly seeds.
Fruit trees also play a significant role in bird conservation. Crab apple 'Red Sentinel' is one of the easiest fruit trees to grow, producing beautiful white blossom in spring and bright red fruits that hold through winter, providing a crucial food source during lean months. Similarly, myrtle produces berries in autumn that last until April, bridging the hungry gap for birds.
Incorporating these plants into our gardens not only enhances their visual appeal but also contributes to the well-being of our local bird population. By providing a steady food supply, we can encourage birds to nest and raise their young in our gardens, fostering a harmonious coexistence with nature.
