Birds are, for me, a source of inexhaustible entertainment. Their songs operatic. Their flight patterns acrobatic. Their mere presence calming. 
I’m fortunate to have a yard full of birds who hang out year ‘round, from at least 24 different genera and 31 species at last count. But this week many more will visit, because now is the peak season for migratory birds, and Oklahoma is part of their central flyway en route to northern feeding and nesting grounds. In fact, between 36 and 48 million migratory birds traveled across Oklahoma just yesterday. Seriously.

I live in an older neighborhood with lots of large trees that birds love, but I’ve also created a bird-friendly landscape for both migratory and non-migratory birds by adding plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting sites, the three essentials birds require. And by not using pesticides, which means birds have a steady supply of caterpillars and insects of all kinds. 

So as you continue your spring planting, consider the following plants, all of which in their own way create a haven for birds. It’s a partial list, but it’ll get you off to a good start. All provide at least one of the essentials birds require, and many provide all three.

Consider fruits as well such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. Use nets to cover what you want to harvest, but leave a portion of the plants exposed for the birds.

And to make your landscape even more inviting, do these things.

Let Southwood Design Studio light your path to a landscape you’ll love coming home to.

If you’ve been in the store recently, you may have noticed the new shade garden designed and installed by our expert team in our Southwood Design Studio. Not only does it enhance the beauty of the store (which was already gorgeous), it demonstrates exactly the attention to detail we can bring to your landscape.

Our team specializes in transforming everyday yards into extraordinary spaces with structure, color, and even lighting and hardscaping. Every single plant is carefully considered to not only maximize visual impact, but also ensure that each specimen thrives in our Oklahoma weather.

Let your vision take root with Southwood Design Studio – “Love Coming Home”

Expand your knowledge of backyard birds with free apps for iPhone and Android. One of the best is Merlin Bird ID from Cornell Lab. It’s powered by ebird, the world’s largest database of bird sightings, sounds, and photos.

In celebration of our Lavender Festival (May 30-31), next week I’ll focus on this beautiful and aromatic perennial, from planting tricks to selection tips.