The plants can attract birds regularly (stock image) (Image: Getty)
Lots of people like the idea of having birds visit their garden, and there are things you can leave outside to encourage them to stop by regularly. With the weather improving, and many of us spending more time outdoors, now is the time of year when it’s particularly lovely to see them in the garden.
April is a time of year when lots of people start planting flowers, and incorporating three specific plants into your garden design may just encourage wildlife to visit. Experts say these plants in particular can draw birds in easily, which means using them is an easy way to attract the creatures to the garden this year.
It’s not the only clever technique that works either. Just months ago it was revealed leaving another common item outside can draw them in too.
Senior Horticultural Content Manager at Fothergill’s Pim Dickson explained exactly what people need to do to see more birds and, as the brand has thousands of followers on social media, the expert advice is well worth listening to. He said: “Forget expensive bird feeders that need constant refilling.
“The smartest way to feed garden birds is to grow plants that do the job for you. Berry-producing shrubs like hawthorn, holly and viburnum are like all-you-can-eat restaurants for hungry birds during the colder months.”
Read more: All gardeners urged to put cucumber skins outside in April
He added: “If you’ve got flowers that are past their best, leave them be. Sunflowers, for instance, produce seeds that finches and sparrows absolutely love.
“The same goes for plants like echinacea and alliums. Let them go to seed and watch the birds flock to your garden.
“Even plants that many consider weeds, like teasels, can become vital food sources when left to their own devices. Timing matters when it comes to wildlife-friendly gardening.
“Make sure you’ve got plants that flower at different times of the year, so there’s always something available for pollinators. Spring bulbs such as crocuses and snowdrops offer early sustenance when pollinators first emerge, while summer herbs bridge the gap between seasons.”
Therefore, it’s quite easy to attract birds when you know what you’re doing. Adding some key plants to your outdoor space may just help.
What you need to know
When it comes to planting hawthorn, holly and viburnum, the best time to do this is between November to March. However, there are other plants you can plant in April to boost wildlife in your garden.
You can plant echinacea (coneflowers) and alliums in April, although they have different ideal planting times and requirements. April is considered a very good time for planting echinacea, but it’s considered a little late for alliums, though it’s still possible.
When it comes to April planting, potted or container-grown plants are ideal. Meanwhile, bare-root plants can also be planted in early spring as long as the ground is not waterlogged.
You need to choose a spot with full sun and well-drained soil. As well as this, make sure the young plants are well-watered as they establish themselves, especially if the weather turns dry.
April is also a really good time to start planting sunflowers – either by sowing seeds indoors in pots or directly into the ground from mid-April. Just bear in mind that they need a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining soil and consistent watering to thrive.
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