Seven Winter-Preferred Vegetation Species that Entice Avian Visitors
Winter can be a tough time for our cherished backyard birds. Shorter days mean less time foraging, colder temperatures drive away tasty insects, and plant dormancy eliminates crucial shelter and food sources. Despite their resilience, birds change their behaviors to endure this harsh season. Yet, we can assist them in thriving and adding stunning splashes of color to our gardens during winter. Ecologist and bird expert Forrest King-Cortes shared his insights on what plants to grow to attract birds to our yards during winter.
Forrest King-Cortes serves as the national director for community-centered conservation at the Land Trust Alliance, and previously served on the Chicago Audubon Society board.
Preparing for Winter Visitors
For a bird-friendly yard in winter, it's essential to plan ahead. "Planting for winter begins in the spring," says King-Cortes. Understanding a plant's lifecycle is key to ensuring there are appealing plants in winter.
"What you plant in the spring will bloom in the summer," King-Cortes explains. "Then the seeds will follow in the fall. Leaving the plant standing even when it's not blooming means leaving food for birds to survive the winter."
Although it may be tempting to remove dead plants or trim barren ones, it discourages birds in the long term. "Resist the urge to touch fallen leaves, sticks on your lawn, or the stocks of plants that look unappealing in your yard," advises King-Cortes. "These are nesting materials, shelters, and sources of food for insects that will feed birds in the spring."
Choosing the Right Plants
When selecting winter-friendly plants to attract birds, prioritize native species relevant to your region. "The right plants depend on where you live," says King-Cortes. "Always choose native options over non-native ones."
Native plants adapt to your local climate and soil, needing minimal maintenance and providing ideal food sources for birds in your area. To find suitable plants, check with your local university agricultural extension.
While native plants may vary by region, some common options include:
Flowering Plants
To draw small birds like chickadees and goldfinches, opt for flowers that produce small seeds:
ConeflowersAstersZinniasMilkweeds
Shrubs and Berries
Birds love shrubs due to their berries and shelter. Some excellent options include:
ViburnumsChokeberries*Hollies
Creating a Bird-Friendly Yard
To make your yard extra appealing to birds, cultivate diversity in your plant selection. A good strategy is to consider the heights of your yard. "Does it include low-growing flowering plants, different grasses, shrubs, and both small and large trees?" asks King-Cortes. A diverse mix of plants attracts various bird species during winter and throughout the year.
In conclusion, providing native plants for bird food, shelter, and nesting materials helps them survive during winter and adds beauty to our backyards. By taking these steps, we can offer a much-needed winter haven for our local bird populations and promote a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem.
- To help our winter bird visitors, gardeners can start planning for winter in the spring by planting appropriate plants, as Forrest King-Cortes, the national director for community-centered conservation at the Land Trust Alliance, suggests.
- King-Cortes advises against removing dead plants or trimming barren ones during winter, as fallen leaves, sticks, and unappealing plant stocks can serve as valuable nesting materials, shelters, and food sources for insects that benefit birds in the spring.
- When selecting winter-friendly plants, it's important to prioritize native species relevant to your region, as they adapt well to local climates, requiring minimal maintenance and delivering essential food sources for local bird populations.
- Gardening enthusiasts can create a more bird-friendly yard by cultivating a diverse selection of plants, including various shrubs and berries like viburnums, chokeberries, and hollies, which not only attract multiple bird species during winter but also contribute to a visually stunning and lively backyard environment throughout the year.
