Summer 2012 has been designated Garden for Wildlife and any yard can become a critter-friendly yard with a few simple steps.
“Anyone can garden for wildlife, no matter how big your space, or how expert a gardener you are,” said David Mizejewski, NWF Naturalist and spokesperson for NWF’s Certified Wildlife Habitat® program. “It just takes a commitment to include a few elements in your landscape plan that will make wildlife feel at home.”
There are a number of common myths surrounding gardening for wildlife. Here are the real facts:
Myth #1: Providing water for wildlife creates a mosquito haven.
False. It takes a minimum of about a week for the metamorphosis from egg to winged adult to be completed, so emptying your bird bath or other water source every few days eliminates the chance of creating a mosquito nursery.
Myth #2: Dogs and gardening for wildlife don’t mix.
False. Plan your garden by thinking like your dog! Arbors for vines protect plants and also direct your dog’s path. Focus on attracting wildlife that your dog is unlikely to harm or be harmed by such as bird and butterflies Large, round rocks are awkward for dogs to walk on, so use them to block off delicate plants.
Myth #3: You can’t garden if you have allergies.
False. Plants pollinated by the wind are the cause of most allergies. Fortunately for gardeners and wildlife lovers, plants pollinated by animals have not only brightly colored blooms but also large, heavy pollen that is less likely to be allergenic. Plant native wildflowers like asters, goldenrods and coneflowers that are pollinated by animals.
Myth #4: You need a yard to garden for wildlife.
False. Many species, like birds and butterflies, are easy to attract since they are so mobile. If you have a smaller space, just think in smaller scale. For example, instead of a bird bath, simply fill a small dish with water.
Trees for wildlife
Making your garden wildlife-friendly can be as simple as planting a tree. Trees provide food, shelter and places to raise young for wildlife. Learn the best trees for wildlife, get design tips for gardening with trees and how-to information on tree planting.
Create a butterfly garden
There's more to a butterfly garden than pretty flowers. True, many butterflies feed on flower nectar, so blooming plants are a must for a butterfly garden. But not all butterflies do. Find out surprising ways to feed butterflies, how they can benefit from a mud puddle and how to get them to have their babies in your garden.
Wildlife and vegetable gardens
Wild animals can be a bit pesky when they invade your vegetable garden looking for an easy meal. Find out tips on protecting your produce and the surprising ways that wildlife and bountiful crops go hand in hand.
Slimy and slithery garden wildlife
Bird and butterflies get all the love when it comes to wildlife gardening, but toads, snakes, bats and other "creepy crawlies" are just as important and need our help too.
Best native plants for the garden
Native plants are the best pick for your garden if you're trying to attract birds, butterflies and other backyard wildlife. Find out some of the best ones that are better for the environment; require less watering and fewer pesticides, and are more tolerant to drought.
Not all bugs are bad for the garden. In fact, without six and eight legged predators, your pest problems would be much worse. Find out more about some of the most beneficial insects and how to attract them.
Attracting birds to the garden is a rewarding activity for the whole family. Learn the best ways to attract and observe your winged friends. What plants provide the best food for birds? Which type of bird seeds attracts the most visitors?
Water water everywhere and lots of places to drink
From bird baths to bogs and ponds, there are lots of ways to provide wildlife with water. But many gardeners don’t know how to tackle this wildlife habitat essential. Explore the various options and select the best water source for your landscape.
More information on how to create a wildlife habitat and have it certified by National Wildlife Federation can be found at www.nwf.org/gardenforwildlife. Gardeners who certify their yards receive a personalized certificate, a one-year membership in National Wildlife Federation which includes a subscription to National Wildlife magazine, and more.
Posted by Kathy Van Mullekom; firstname.lastname@example.org