While the robin's red breast is a quintessential symbol of a British Christmas, these beloved birds don't have to be just seasonal visitors. With one strategic addition to your outdoor space, you can encourage robins to flock to your garden throughout the entire year, including the summer months.
The Ultimate Plant for Year-Round Robin Visits
According to horticultural expert Cindy Watter, writing for the University of California, the key to making your garden a robin magnet is planting a hawthorn tree. This tree is particularly favoured because of its deep-red fruits, known as "haws". Watter notes that the hawthorn's primary purpose "is to provide habitat and food for birds", offering a reliable natural larder for species like the robin.
She adds that these trees are low-maintenance once established, requiring only occasional pruning. "Mine is quite tall because I neglected that part, but the birds don't care," Watter explains. "The fruits look like tiny red apples and I have seen birds swallow them whole."
When and How to Plant Your Hawthorn
Garden experts, including those at Love The Garden, confirm that the ideal time to plant a hawthorn is during the dormant season, from November to March. Planting during this period gives the tree the best start. Once it matures and bears fruit, you can expect your garden to become a favourite haunt for red-breasted friends across all seasons.
Supplementing with a Safe Food Source
While a hawthorn tree provides excellent natural sustenance, maintaining a bird feeder is another effective way to attract robins. Their diet varies with the seasons: they enjoy mealworms (live or soaked dried ones) in summer, while suet and fat balls are crucial for energy in winter. A reliable feeder stocked with sunflower seeds, crushed peanuts, and fruit will also draw them in.
Providing a consistent food source now significantly boosts robins' chances of staying healthy and surviving the colder winter months.
However, the placement of your feeder is critical for safety. Position it away from potential hiding spots for predators like cats. Birds will avoid feeders that are too close to the ground, dense vegetation, fences, or sheds. A safe, open location is essential for them to feed confidently.
By combining the perennial food supply of a hawthorn tree with a well-stocked, safely positioned feeder, you can transform your garden into a sanctuary for robins, ensuring their cheerful presence is enjoyed long after the Christmas decorations are packed away.
