GARDEN Art DIY: 14+ Birdy Garden Tips and Ideas

14+ Birdy Garden Tips and Ideas

An excellent first step is to get familiar with the bird species in your area.

Field guides for birds are available by region.

In addition to identifying different species, I actually use the field guides for birds (and butterflies) to plan my garden.

Read up on the plants your local birds rely on for survival and add those selections to attract them to your garden.

If you're lucky enough to have hummingbirds in your area, there's a few things to know to keep their feeders safe.

The main concern is keeping the feeder clean with fresh nectar (sugar water).

Feeders should be washed thoroughly every other day (or so), depending on how hot it is outside so they never become moldy.

To make hummingbird nectar

Boil 1 cup of white-granulated sugar in 4 cups of water.
Dissolve thoroughly and allow to cool.
Never add food coloring: it's not beneficial to the hummingbirds and completely unnecessary.
Store leftovers in the fridge for one week.

A good hummingbird feeder has

A glass nectar jar (these are long-lasting and easy to wash).
A secure place for the hummers to perch while drinking.
Easy-to-remove parts for washing.

Feeders made for Baltimore Orioles use the same nectar and provide a safe feeding spot for these larger birds.

A great birdhouse is essential garden decor.

It's important to know that there's a difference between birdhouses and nesting boxes.

Most birdhouses are not properly designed for birds to nest in them and should only be used as decorations. If you're unsure of the safety, just close off the door holes.

Well-made nesting boxes are designed for specific bird species.

The openings should be just the right size for the type of bird and have extra wood to prevent predators from reaching inside.

Also look for hinged openings so debris can be cleaned out at the end of each season.

In addition to food, birds need a safe, reliable water source.

Birdbaths are a great idea but you do need to maintain them.

Bird Bath Safety Tips

Keep water clean and fresh.
Bowl should not be deeper than 1-2".
Make sure the birdbath has a safe, secure place for the birds to stand (most don't swim).
A circulating fountain helps keep the water clean.

Birdbaths also make great planters. Here's more creative garden container ideas.