Robins will flock to your garden daily if you leave water out this September, according to a gardener whose advice has gone viral. The tip costs nothing and works every time, she claims.
Water beats seeds for attracting robins
In a TikTok video, the gardener known as the Floral Gardener advised viewers to "forget the seeds", adding: "It's frustrating when you're making so much effort and putting out food for them, bird boxes up and they're still not coming. This is what works – water."
She said: "Give birds multiple water sources and they were flock to your gardens. In my front garden, I feed the birds, but in my back garden I only offer water and guess what there's tonnes of birds in my back garden."
Simple water features that work
She added: "I've got water features and a pond but you're on a budget, bowls of water or even plant pot saucers of water work just as well. Anything that holds water, they'll be happy with. They'll drink it, have a bath in it, they just love it."
She also revealed a "bonus tip" – watering your lawn. The gardener explained: "Birds love wet soil so they can get to the worms much easily. Try it and you'll be absolutely amazed."
Why robins appear in September
Robins seem to "come out" and become visible again in September because they finish their annual summer moult. They also start singing their autumn territorial songs.
As natural summer insect supplies drop, they move out into open gardens and lawns more visibly to search for food. They also remember reliable food sources like lawns with worms and safe spots away from predators.
Benefits of attracting robins
There are numerous advantages, from consuming harmful insects to controlling pest populations. Robins hunt soil-dwelling pests, keeping damaging numbers firmly in check without requiring chemical pesticides.
Robins also provide excellent gardening company, frequently remaining nearby while you dig or weed, as disturbed earth reveals concealed earthworms and larvae. They quickly become confident and comfortable around people, occasionally venturing close enough to take food from your hand or settle on a garden implement.
Additionally, robins consume berries during autumn and winter, naturally dispersing seeds throughout various locations. Their presence contributes to the overall biodiversity and vitality of a garden wildlife habitat. Finally, robins continue singing throughout the darkest winter months, which can brighten an otherwise dreary season considerably.
