Introduction
One of the most important things you can do to make your garden more wildlife-friendly is to plant native plants. These are species that have evolved in a particular region over hundreds of years and will provide food and shelter for local animals, as well as looking pretty.
But if you’re not sure where to start when it comes to creating a wild garden or how best to attract wildlife into your backyard, here are some tips on how best to go about it!
* Plant native shrubs and plants.
Native plants are usually better able to withstand local insects and diseases, and they’re better adapted to your region’s soil conditions. But that doesn’t mean you have to plant only native plants! If you’ve got a hankering for something exotic, go for it—just be sure to mix in some native species as well.
As for what types of wildlife are attracted by particular plants? Well…the list is long: bees, butterflies (you can attract them by planting several different types of flowers), birds (they love nectar-rich flowers like butterfly bushes), mammals (plants with fruit or nuts will bring squirrels and other small animals into your yard), reptiles (snakes particularly like the sight of water lilies).
* Add a water feature.
- Add a water feature.
A pond, fountain, birdbath or even a birdbath with a fountain can attract wildlife. Make sure the water is deep enough for wildlife to drink from and big enough to provide them with a place to drink and bathe.
* Provide shelter.
- Provide shelter.
You can make your yard a safe space for animals by building birdhouses and bat houses, providing a nesting site for insects, building small mammal cavities, and more.
- Build a birdhouse.
Birdhouses should be placed at least 4 feet (1 meter) off the ground to protect them from predators like cats and raccoons. They should also be facing south or east to ensure they’re getting enough sunlight throughout the day. Once you have your house built it’s time to start filling it with occupants! Make sure your birdhouse is large enough so that multiple species can take up residence together as long as each species has access to their own entrance hole (this will reduce competition for food).
* Don’t use chemicals.
- Don’t use chemicals.
Chemicals can be harmful to wildlife, you, and the environment. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of weeds and pests without chemicals, check out this blog post on how to do that. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of diseases without using chemicals, read this article instead!
* Add birdhouses and feeders.
Birdhouses and bird feeders are a great way to attract wildlife to your garden. You can buy them, or build them yourself with scrap wood and twigs! Install one on a post in your yard, or attach it to the side of your house (you might want to use screws, instead of nails). If you plan on hanging it from the roof of your house, make sure that it has a sturdy base so it won’t fall down.
You can also make your own birdfeeders using things like peanut butter cups and jelly jars with holes drilled through them. If you have any leftover plastic bottles lying around, cut off the top part of each one (the part where you drink from) and use this as an entryway for birds looking for food – just be careful not to trap any fingers inside!
* Leave seed heads standing over winter.
- Leave seed heads standing over winter. You’ll be surprised at how many birds you attract this way! The seed heads provide food for them, and they also provide shelter from the elements, which is especially important if you live in a northern climate. In addition to this, bird nests can be found in these seed heads. Young birds will also use them as a place to perch or sleep while they’re growing up and learning how to fly
* Leave a pile of logs and branches in a quiet corner or under a hedge.
Leave a pile of logs and branches in a quiet corner or under a hedge.
The woodpile is an attractive habitat for many woodland creatures such as stag beetles, butterflies, bees and many more.
A wild garden is great for wildlife and also good for you!
Wildlife is a wonderful addition to any garden. Not only are they beautiful and entertaining, but they can also be good for your health, your soul and spirit. Plus, they can be a conversation starter at parties!
There are many reasons why you should consider adding some wildlife to your garden:
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope that this blog has helped you to understand how to attract wildlife into your garden. If you’re interested in getting started, why not check out some of our recommendations? We’ve listed them below: