One of the greatest pleasures of owning a garden is sitting back and watching an array of birds visit and settle in it. If you're keen to draw more wildlife into your outdoor space, May is the ideal time to get outside and start planting.
By choosing the right plants, you can transform your back garden into an inviting haven for birds. With suitable food sources and shelter, birds will be drawn to your garden and return throughout the year.
According to Jo McGarry, from Caragh Nurseries, keeping your garden teeming with life requires focusing on plants that both support insect populations and produce an abundance of seeds.
She said: "A garden that attracts birds in summer needs a balance of nectar-rich flowers, seed heads and protective planting. Many bird species rely on insects during the warmer months, so choosing plants that support pollinators entices more birds into your garden."
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are among the simplest options to grow. She said: "Once the flowers fade, the seed heads become a valuable food source for finches and sparrows later in the year."
Cornflowers and Scabious
Jo also suggests cornflowers and scabious for those looking to support insect-eating birds. She said: "Cornflowers and scabious attract bees, hoverflies and other insects, which helps provide food for birds such as robins, wrens and blue tits. If the seed heads are left standing into autumn, they will continue feeding seed-eating birds as temperatures drop."
Berry-Producing Shrubs
She also suggests planting berry-producing shrubs for more lasting benefits. "Plants such as hawthorn, cotoneaster and guelder rose provide berries, shelter and nesting cover. A mix of flowering plants and shrubs will attract a wider variety of birds across the seasons."
Honeysuckle
Flowering vines such as honeysuckle are another excellent option, not only looking and smelling gorgeous, but drawing birds and insects into your garden. She said: "Wildlife-friendly gardens benefit from layered planting, so climbers, shrubs and flowering perennials all play an important role."
Coneflowers
Coneflowers are a brilliant choice too, as birds feast on the seed heads right through to autumn and winter if they are left undisturbed after flowering.
One of the most effective things you can do to draw birds into your garden is simply to leave it be. Jo explained: "Many gardeners cut everything back at the end of summer, but leaving seed heads, stems and leaf litter in place gives birds access to food and shelter during colder months. Even plants without visible seeds can hold insects that birds rely on."
