Native Trees and Shrubs: A Wildlife Haven in Your Backyard
Introduction
Planting native trees and shrubs in your backyard is a wonderful way to attract birds and other wildlife to your yard. Native plants are those that are naturally found in your area, and they provide food and shelter for a variety of animals.
The Benefits of Native Trees and Shrubs for Wildlife
- Food: Native trees and shrubs produce fruits, nuts, and seeds that are eaten by birds, mammals, and other wildlife.
- Cover: The branches and leaves of native trees and shrubs provide shelter from the sun, rain, and wind. They also provide nesting sites for birds and other animals.
- Habitat: Native trees and shrubs create a natural habitat for wildlife, providing them with the food, shelter, and water they need to survive.
Choosing the Right Native Trees and Shrubs
When choosing native trees and shrubs for your yard, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of wildlife you want to attract: Different types of wildlife have different needs, so it is important to choose trees and shrubs that will provide the food and shelter they need. For example, if you want to attract birds, you should choose trees and shrubs that produce fruits and berries.
- The size of your yard: The size of your yard will determine the number and type of trees and shrubs you can plant. If you have a small yard, you may want to choose smaller trees and shrubs.
- The amount of sunlight your yard receives: Some trees and shrubs need full sun, while others can tolerate partial shade or even full shade. Be sure to choose trees and shrubs that are suited to the amount of sunlight your yard receives.
Planting and Caring for Native Trees and Shrubs
Once you have chosen the right native trees and shrubs for your yard, it is important to plant and care for them properly.
- Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree or shrub. Place the tree or shrub in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree or shrub thoroughly.
- Watering: Water your trees and shrubs regularly, especially during the first year after planting.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your trees and shrubs once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pruning: Prune your trees and shrubs as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the plants.
Specific Native Trees and Shrubs for Wildlife
Here are a few specific native trees and shrubs that are good choices for attracting wildlife to your yard:
- For birds: Flowering dogwood, crabapple, serviceberry
- For mammals: Oak, hickory, maple
- For pollinators: Black cherry, juneberry, elderberry
Conclusion
Planting native trees and shrubs in your backyard is a great way to attract wildlife to your yard and create a beautiful and natural landscape. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right trees and shrubs for your yard and provide food, shelter, and habitat for a variety of animals.
