Landscaping for Wildlife
Article Written By: Jordan E Raley
Chattanooga residents often have to fight off unwanted animals from eating flowers and plants in their yard. But for those that want to attract wildlife, there are several ways to do so. Let’s take a look at some ways to make your yard more creature friendly, while keeping maintenance relatively low.
Remove Grass
Change out all or part of your standard grass lawn with something less common like moss, jasmine, wildflowers, or even a creative rock garden. Besides removing some of the maintenance your standard lawn requires (mowing, weeding, watering), these options are optimal in creating a plush environment for a variety of wildlife to enjoy and provide a more unique look to your lawn. Two key things to remember:
You’ll want to ensure that the area you change has low foot traffic as some groundcover items (like jasmine) are delicate and will be easily crushed under foot.
Also, your use of pesticides, if any, should be minimal or non-existent. Pesticides can greatly hurt wildlife and defeat the point of you creating a creature habitat.
Changing your lawn to clover or other ground cover options creates a plush environment for a variety of wildlife.
Add Water
Water elements, be it a fountain, bird bath or pond, can attract a mixture of species to your space, such as birds, reptiles, butterflies, and amphibians. Adding water creates a calming, relaxing space for you and your wildlife to enjoy. If creating a pond, think about local fish and other water dwelling creatures you may enjoy. Check with local wildlife authorities about the best fish to stock your pond. When adding in water elements to your landscaping, you’ll want to ensure you’re not using toxic chemicals to treat or clean them or else you’ll deter or harm wildlife that may come. A good cleaning will be required at least annually for your water elements, but the payoff is well worth it.
Plant Flowers
Plant plenty of flowers, ideally native to your region or climate, wherever you see fit. Flowers not only provide lush fragrance and a dazzling array of color to any landscape, but they also provide natural food to a host of creatures and many types can bloom through several seasons. Native plants are better adapted to local soil conditions, generally do not require fertilizing, and are more resistant to diseases. Native flowers will have your bees buzzing, your hummingbirds fluttering, and your butterflies soaring with delight. You will have color year-round, and your wildlife will take comfort in having plenty to munch on and enjoy as the seasons change. Full Circle has great recommendations of what native plants to add into your Tennessee landscape!
Native flowers are an ideal option throughout your garden to provide food for butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.
Install Trees
Don’t be deterred by adding in fruit or seed-bearing trees to your landscaping. Berries, seeds, fruit, pollen, and leaves all attract wildlife, many through several seasons throughout the year. Squirrels and birds will be thankful for the nuts and insects. Caterpillars will be pleased with your leaf selection. You will be grateful for the shade cover on a hot day! Besides providing food and shade, trees supply necessary cover for some wildlife like birds, rabbits, and other small animals that burrow to stay safe. Bonus: DIY birdfeeders added to different branches create a fun way you can enjoy watching the birds come and go, regardless of the weather.
Landscaping for wildlife is a fun endeavor, but it comes with careful consideration, research, and due diligence. And Full Circle Land Design is here to help you with that! We offer a variety of recommendations and services, so contact us today to get started!!