Are you the type of person that loves to wake up to the singing of songbirds? If so, creating a miniature bird sanctuary in your garden is an excellent way to invite chirping feathered friends to your home. The following landscape tips will help you plan your landscape with the birds in mind.

Tip #1: Plant in three layers

When planning the landscape design, think in three layers. The first layer is your low-growing plants. These can be ground cover, along with smaller annuals and perennials. This layer provides cover for birds feeding on the ground. The second layer is your subshrubs and shrubs, which can range from about 18 inches tall to a few feet. This layer provides deeper cover along with nesting spots for birds that nest close to the ground. Your final layer are taller shrubs and trees – generally anything over four feet. These provide safe spots, high nesting areas, and shade for the birds.

Tip #2: Choose food producing plants

If you have birds on the brain, then you need to look for plants that provide both food for the birds and beauty for the landscape. You also need to consider the feeding habits of the birds you wish to attract. For example, nectar producing plants, like fuchsia or honeysuckles, are perfect for attracting hummingbirds. Plant snowberry shrubs or small serviceberry trees if your aim is to bring in a mixture of small warblers and larger songbirds. Plants that go to seed, like coneflowers and black-eyed susans, provide winter feed for hardy robins. A local landscape designer can help you pick plants that grow in your area and attract birds native to your region.

Tip #3: Make the accessories pull double-duty

Lawn ornaments and art an important part of any attractive landscape, but make yours double as bird friendly additions. For example, instead of a purely decorative obelisk, install a decorative post that supports ornate but usable birdhouses or bird feeders. Skip the statues and provide beautiful stone birdbaths or shallow fountains for your feathered friends to bathe in and drink from. Hang birdhouses at various heights to attract different bird species. Also, make sure feeders are always hung high enough so birds are safe from common neighborhood predators, like a pouncing housecat.

With a little patience and planning, you can have a backyard that is relaxing and enjoyable to hang out in, for both you and the birds. Visit a landscape designer like Design Scapes of Manasota Inc for more ideas.