Creating a garden that attracts birds is not only a rewarding experience but also a wonderful way to contribute to the local ecosystem. Birds play a crucial role in pollination and pest control, and by providing them with a source of food, you can help support their populations. In this article, we will explore the best seedy plants to grow for birds and how to incorporate them into your garden design.
One of the key factors in attracting birds to your garden is to provide them with a variety of food sources. Different bird species have different dietary preferences, so it's important to plant a diverse range of seedy plants. Some of the best seedy plants to grow for birds include goldenrod, pearl millet, sea holly, Joe Pye weed, New England aster, sunflower, cosmos, black - eyed Susan, purple coneflower, zinnia, coreopsis, globe thistle, sedum, and native grasses.
Goldenrod is a beautiful and hardy plant that produces an abundance of small seeds. It is a favorite among many bird species, including finches and sparrows. The bright yellow flowers also add a splash of color to your garden in the late summer and fall. Pearl millet is another excellent choice. It grows tall and produces large, nutritious seeds that are attractive to a wide variety of birds. Sea holly, with its unique spiky blue - gray flowers, not only looks great in the garden but also provides seeds that are enjoyed by finches and other small birds.
Joe Pye weed is a native plant that can grow quite tall, reaching up to 7 feet in height. Its clusters of pink or purple flowers are followed by seeds that are a valuable food source for birds. New England aster is a late - blooming plant that provides nectar for butterflies in the fall and seeds for birds later on. The bright purple flowers are a beautiful addition to any garden.
Sunflowers are perhaps one of the most well - known bird - attracting plants. Their large, showy heads are filled with seeds that are loved by many bird species, including cardinals, chickadees, and nuthatches. Cosmos are easy - to - grow annuals that produce an abundance of colorful flowers and small seeds. Black - eyed Susan is a classic wildflower that is not only beautiful but also provides seeds for birds. Purple coneflower is a popular perennial that has large, cone - shaped flowers and seeds that are a favorite of goldfinches.
Zinnias are another great choice for attracting birds. They come in a wide range of colors and produce seeds that are eaten by many different bird species. Coreopsis, with its bright yellow or orange flowers, is a low - maintenance plant that provides seeds for birds. Globe thistle has unique spherical flower heads that turn into seed heads, which are attractive to finches. Sedum is a succulent plant that produces small seeds and also provides shelter for birds.
Native grasses are an often - overlooked but important part of a bird - friendly garden. They provide cover for birds, as well as seeds. Many native grass species are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easy to grow. When incorporating these seedy plants into your garden design, consider creating different layers. Taller plants like sunflowers and Joe Pye weed can be placed at the back of the garden, while shorter plants like cosmos and zinnia can be placed in the front. Grouping plants together can also create a more attractive and functional habitat for birds.
You can also add other elements to your garden to make it more appealing to birds. A birdbath is a great addition, as it provides birds with a source of water for drinking and bathing. Bird feeders can be used to supplement the natural food sources in your garden, especially during the winter months when food may be scarce. Nesting boxes can also encourage birds to stay and breed in your garden.
In conclusion, creating a garden that is a haven for birds is a wonderful way to connect with nature and support local wildlife. By choosing the right seedy plants and incorporating them into your garden design, you can attract a wide variety of bird species and enjoy the beauty and activity they bring to your outdoor space. So, start planning your bird - friendly garden today and watch as it comes alive with the sights and sounds of feathered friends.