Backyard Planting Tips For Attracting New England Wildlife

Do you love spending time in your backyard? Whether relaxing on the patio or tending to your garden, it’s always nice to enjoy having that extra living space. And if you’re lucky enough to have a yard of your own, you know that it can be a great place to relax and entertain guests. But what many people don’t realize is that there are lots of ways to make your backyard, even more, inviting – by planting trees and shrubs that attract local wildlife! So, if you’re looking for some new ideas, read on for tips on how to create a backyard oasis for all kinds of creatures.

Plants are a great way to attract wildlife to your backyard.

There are many different types of plants that can be used to attract different types of wildlife. Butterflies are beautiful creatures that can be found in many parts of the world. Different types of butterflies can be attracted to your backyard by using the right plants. Plants that attract butterflies typically have a lot of nectar and pollen. Some good examples of plants that attract butterflies are milkweed, lavender, and butterfly bush.

Choose New England Friendly Vegetation

New England tolerant plants are a great option for those who live in the Northeastern United States. These plants can withstand the colder temperatures and harsh winters of the region. Evergreens that produce berries and stay green in the winter provide shelter.

Backyard Water Features

Water features are another great way to attract wildlife to your backyard. Birds and other animals are attracted to the sound and movement of water. While a birdbath will attract birds to come and get a drink or take a bath, your neighborhood squirrels will make the climb to get a drink as well. If you want to attract toads or frogs, you’ll need something close to the ground for frogs like a built-in pond, toads will climb stairs if they can hear a water feature on your deck.

Make It Edible

Edible plants with berries are a great option for those who want to attract wildlife and have the added benefit of providing food for them. Plants such as raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries are all great choices. Fruit trees are also popular, as well as just putting out some cut pieces of fruit like kiwi and banana and cantaloupe will attract hummingbirds.

Create Areas for Shelter & Nesting

You can also attract wildlife by providing shelter for them. Creating a habitat for wildlife is a great way to help them survive and thrive in your backyard. Plants can be used to create this habitat as well. Toads like ceramic planters turned on their side away from foot traffic will provide a nice shelter with dirt or moss below so they can nestle in a safe spot. Birdhouses are another way to host a bird ready to have its eggs. Bat houses are different than birdhouses, bats climb up into the shelter from the bottom, as they do on the siding of your home. Bats eat a thousand mosquitos per hour! Bonus! And bat guano is a great fertilizer for your plants. Double win right there!

Choose Native Plants For The Best Environment

Native plants are always a good choice when trying to attract wildlife to your backyard. These plants are adapted to the local climate and environment and will be more likely to attract the local wildlife. Also, you will have better luck with the plant’s survival if they are native to New England climate.

Go With A Variety of Plants

Creating a diverse landscape is also important for attracting wildlife. By planting a variety of different types of plants, you will be able to attract a wider range of wildlife. And you benefit from enjoying the beautiful landscape while hosting a habitat for wildlife.

Provide Food & Water

Be sure to provide food, water, and shelter for the wildlife you are trying to attract. By doing this, you will be giving them everything they need to survive and thrive in your backyard.

Not all birds eat the same seed or fruit. So, do some research and buy seeds for what bird you want to attract. For instance, Robins do not eat from bird feeders. Their beaks can’t handle cracking shells, nor can their stomach digest seed. They eat worms and berries such as blueberries, mulberries, winterberries, honeysuckle, and holly. Cardinals our ground feeders, but they prefer Black-Oil Sunflower Seed Safflower Seed.  The Black-Capped Chickadees love suet, peanuts, peanut butter. While The American goldfinch’s diet consists of mostly seeds. They love Nyjer® Seed and Sunflower Seeds.

Need to Deter Wildlife?

You can also use plants to deter wildlife from your backyard. Plants such as garlic, onions, and chili peppers can help to keep animals away. And you’ll have some salad fixings too!

Be Patient

Remember, it is important to be patient when attracting wildlife to your backyard. It may take some time for them to find your garden and make it their home. But, if you plant it, they will come!

Wildlife can be a great addition to your backyard, but it’s important to provide the right plants and features to attract them. By using some of the tips we’ve shared, you can create a beautiful landscape that also doubles as a wildlife haven. Just be patient – it may take a while for wildlife to start utilizing your yard, but once they do, you’ll be able to enjoy their company from the comfort of your own home.

By following these tips, you will be on your way to attracting the wildlife you desire to your backyard. Plants are a great way to do this and by providing food, water, and shelter for them, you will be giving them everything they need to thrive.  Remember to provide food, water, and shelter for the wildlife if you want them to stick around! So, get out there and start planting!