SolveYourProblem
Hedges Article Series
I
Want To Create
The Perfect Hedge
Create
Hedges for Local Wildlife
Have you ever wanted to take the time to sit
and watch the birds in your yard, only to realize there were
none to watch? Many people think local wildlife will simply
appear in their yard on a daily basis with no added catalyst.
The truth is however that local wildlife will typically
visit the “best” yard in the area. This does not mean the prettiest
yard will reap the rewards, but the yard that provides the
best accommodations for the wildlife itself. If you want to
draw birds and other local wildlife to your area, consider
creating an inviting space for them to utilize. Using hedges
is a great way to offer an inviting area and also a great way
to begin.
Hedges can be used in many ways when trying to landscape a
home. A hedge is typically defined as a row of trees and shrubs.
They can be pruned to sit at almost any height, allowing the
homeowner to create “walls” with them or shorter “fence” styles
as well. Many times hedges are used to contain a garden area.
They are planted around the fielded area and are used decoratively.
They can add a classic and professional look to any home garden
and give a home instant beauty.
In addition to adding beauty to a home however, a
hedge can also be a great way to attract wildlife to your
yard. Hedges
are so attractive to wildlife because they provide basic needs
for the wildlife. Animals can use hedges for food. Birds will
feed on the hedge’s seeds and if the hedge contains berries,
others animals will indulge as well. Hedges are also great
sources of shelter for wildlife. Birds will utilize them all
year long for shelter. In the summer they provide safety from
storms and predators while in the winter they provide warmth.
Squirrels will also find hedges to be a good place for keeping
safe and warm.
Another thing animals may utilize hedges for is nesting. Some
species would rather nest closer to the ground and will love
keeping the young safe in a nice hedge. This may be even truer
if your area has few trees. If an area is without an abundance
of trees, birds will likely find places such as hedges to nest.
When trying to attract wildlife with hedges, choosing the
right species of hedge can play a significant part. The size
of the hedge is not as important as the type of hedge you choose.
A small hedge can still provide an attractive location for
animals in your area. To stay with hedges that are familiar
to the wildlife in your area, strongly consider using native
plants. Those like hazel, holly, and dog rose are very popular
in most areas. By providing the wildlife with species of plants
they are familiar with, they will be more likely to enjoy your
hedges. Choosing hedges that are dense is also a great idea.
Animals will feel safest when the hedge is dense and will be
more likely to visit your yard.
If you have planted hedges, but still want to do something
extra to attract wildlife, there are options for you. Experts
say animals will be more likely to visit your hedges if you
encourage grasses or flowers to grow at the bottom. Creating
a “cushioning” at the base is an easy way to add more beauty
to a hedge as well as invite wildlife into your area. Animals
love this “cushioning” because it gives them a lower place
to hide and nest if they like.
If you are interested in building a more inviting place for
your local wildlife, one of the easiest things you can do is
provide the wildlife with hedges in which to enjoy. You can
visit your local nursery to find out which hedges are best
for the wildlife in your area. You can also gather information
about pruning or other planting advice. Adding hedges to your
area is not only great for attracting wildlife however, but
will also make your home look more elegant than before. So,
begin planning right away and you will be enjoying local wildlife
in your yard before you know it!
