Border plants: turn your garden into a bird paradise

Creating a bird-friendly garden not only brings life and movement to your outdoor space but also supports local wildlife. One effective way to attract birds is by using border plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. Here, we’ll explore how to turn your garden into a bird paradise with carefully chosen border plants. 

Choosing bird-friendly border plants

Selecting the right border plants is essential for creating a habitat that attracts and supports birds. Consider these options:

• Lavender: Known for its fragrant purple flowers, lavender attracts various pollinators, including birds. Its dense foliage also offers excellent cover for small birds.

• Holly (Ilex): With its bright red berries and evergreen leaves, holly provides both food and shelter. Birds like thrushes and blackbirds are particularly fond of holly berries.

• Sunflowers: These tall, vibrant flowers are not only visually striking but also produce seeds that are a favorite food for many bird species, such as finches and sparrows. 

Creating a diverse habitat 

A successful bird paradise garden includes a variety of plants that cater to different needs. Mix border plants with shrubs, trees, and ground covers to create a layered environment. This diversity will offer multiple benefits:

• Food sources: Provide a range of berries, seeds, and nectar to attract different bird species. Plants like sunflowers, coneflowers, and elderberries are excellent choices.

• Shelter and nesting sites: Dense shrubs and trees, such as holly and hawthorn, offer protection from predators and harsh weather. These plants also provide ideal nesting spots.

• Water features: Adding a birdbath or small pond will encourage birds to visit your garden regularly. Ensure the water is clean and fresh to attract more visitors. 

Maintaining your bird paradise garden 

Keeping your garden bird-friendly requires regular maintenance. Follow these tips to ensure a thriving habitat:

• Prune wisely: Trim plants to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth, but avoid heavy pruning during nesting season to protect bird habitats.

• Avoid pesticides: Use natural pest control methods to keep your garden safe for birds. Chemicals can harm both the birds and their food sources.

• Provide supplemental food: Especially during winter, consider adding bird feeders stocked with seeds, suet, and mealworms to support birds when natural food is scarce. 

By integrating bird-friendly border plants and maintaining a welcoming environment, you can turn your garden into a bird paradise. This approach not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also supports the well-being of local bird populations.