Plants for Songbirds

 DESIGN GUIDELINES 

1. Mimic nature in species selection and arrangement. Native plants that have co-evolved with native birds are more likely to provide nutrition for the birds when it is needed. Arrangement of plants should mimic natural patterns - these layers of plant growth are used for a multitude of purposes. 

2. Create both variety and same-species clumps in the garden. Different birds require different food in different seasons. Therefore, it is important to have enough variety in the garden to sustain birds year-round and maintain some masses of high fruit-producing species to provide very visible, massed displays for recognition. 

3. Leave nature alone. Litter, old branches or tree snags provide perches, nesting cavities, and insects for food. Unraked areas contribute litter that harbors food for ground-feeding birds such as thrashers. On the other hand, maintaining some open areas is important for dust baths. 

4. Avoid use of exotic plants. Exotic trees and shrubs should be avoided when possible due to their potential to spread into native habitats. Minimize turf areas-- they provide little habitat or food for birds and herbicides and fertilizers may be toxic. 

5. Provide water. A small, circulating water source is preferred because traditional bird baths can spread disease.

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