 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
ATTRACTING BIRDS TO GARDENS |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| With their vivid color and melodic sounds, birds help bring an outdoor
garden to life. The addition of bird feeders, bird houses and a fresh and plentiful water
supply will attract an array of birds to gardens, rewarding gardeners with song and color.
Birds are a natural form of pest control, too, feeding on insects that threaten the health
of many trees, shrubs and flowers. For shrubs and plants that will help attract birds to gardens, see the "Planting for Birds" information sheet. Food Supply The most important step in attracting birds to the garden is to provide fresh seed and water. Elevated bird feeders keep feed away from mice and squirrels and protected from rain and snow. Birds depend upon feeders all year long, particularly in the winter when the cooler weather limits their available food sources. Seed feeders supply birds with a constant and reliable source of food throughout the year. Bird Feeders Pasquesi Home and Gardens has a large supply of bird feeders. Two basic models are available: the platform and the tubular. Platform feeders have more perching space for birds to rest and feed on. Tubular feeders are often preferred by smaller birds for their more compact perching areas. Feeders should be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria from accumulating, which could harm the birds. A 10% bleach solution will kill bacteria and prolong the life of bird feeders. Ensure feeders are thoroughly dry before refilling with seed and water. Water Birds need a constant supply of fresh water year round. This is especially important during the winter months, when other sources may have frozen. Provide fresh water daily, ensuring it remains clean and free of debris. Birds are attracted to flowing water and enjoy bathing in it. Birdbaths providing a slow drip of water will attract the attention of many birds. During the winter, birdbaths can be heated with an electric immersion water heater to keep water from freezing. Types of Seed Oil (black) sunflower is the most popular seed for most seed-feeding birds. White proso millet is the most popular feed for sparrows and doves. To attract a range of bird species, offer a mix of birdseed according to the kinds of birds desired. Preferred seed varieties include:
Fruit Birds, especially hummingbirds, love to feast on fresh fruit. Some popular choices for attracting birds to the garden include melon, sliced apples, raisins, oranges and pumpkinseeds. Fruit can be placed on trays or platform feeders, or hung from branches with wire or string. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Pasquesi Home and Gardens is Chicagoland's premier resource for gardeners wanting to create a perfect atmosphere. We have a vast selection of plants, many of them rare and unusual. Our qualified, professional staff is ever-willing to share their knowledge with customers needing advice. Pasquesi Home and Gardens is a complete resource for gardening, home and pet supplies. There are hundreds of beautiful accents for the home and out-of-doors, and Pasquesi Home and Gardens has an unrivaled collection of containers for indoors and outdoors in many different styles, materials and shapes. Both stores carry a wide range of quality garden tools and outdoor furniture. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
