Are you fond of the sound of birds chirping with abandon or the sight of butterflies hovering about unperturbed? If you are, and are looking for ways to get closer to nature without having to take a trip to the nearest botanical garden, then this next piece of news will leave you pleased. A little space, a little effort and a little care… that’s about all you’re required to provide to attract wildlife! Just find some space to plant trees and plants that attract butterflies and birds, and, if you already have a garden in place, introduce varieties that butterflies and birds are fond of.
Sunflower Seeds offer one of the simplest ways of luring wildlife into your lives. A perfect blend of taste and nutrition, sunflower seeds are a magnet for a variety of bird species, including hummingbirds, goldfinches, blue jays, woodpeckers and cardinals. But simply scattering the seeds on the windowsills won’t do the trick. Place the seeds in an uncovered feeder at a high up, open location that provides good visibility as well as some sort of protective cover. Birds feel more confident in natural settings, with shrubs or trees close by. To add more variety to the bird feed, try mixing sunflower seeds with white millet, nyger or other flower seeds.
Full grown sunflower plants, too, are attractive to wildlife. The big, flamboyant flower heads make ideal landing pads for hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other beneficial insects. Butterflies, being cold blooded, relish the warmth offered by the sunlit locations that sunflowers are generally planted in. Wind is one factor that’s often overlooked by gardeners. Butterflies will always shy away from a windy location, no matter how beautiful or alluring it is. It’s always important to plant your sunflowers close to a wall or trees that offer wind cover without cutting out the sun.
If you’re striving to create a butterfly and bird friendly garden, avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. And remember, be patient! Just keep the conditions friendly and harmonious, birds and butterflies will come!