Plants for Attracting Birds

Birds are fascinating creatures and we could happily spend all day watching them! Not only are they interesting to watch, but birds are also the best organic method of pest control. They’re more than happy to munch on Hornworms and Japanese Beetles, which prevents such pests from munching on your plants!

There are plenty of ways to attract birds to your yard, such as feeders, houses and birdbaths. However, the best way to catch the attention of your feathered neighbors is with plants! Plants can provide shelter, nesting materials, and, of course, food. Adding these plants not only attracts them to begin with but encourages them to return year after year.

Plants for Birds

Most native species of trees, shrubs, and perennials provide some benefit for local birds, whether that be as a habitat or as a food source. For a more complete list of native plants we typically carry, click here.

Listed below are some of the more popular plants we carry for attracting birds. However, we may not have every variety listed at all times.

Annuals & Herbs

The following plants can be grown in containers and hanging baskets as well as in garden beds. While they do need to be replanted yearly, they provide longterm color and food sources.

Perennials & Vines

Perennials are a great choice for attracting birds. Once established, these plants come back year after year. The following plants come in several varieties, colors and sizes. You can create a beautiful garden while you feed them.

Shrubs & Trees

The following trees and shrubs can provide birds with both a place to build a nest as well as food. Hollies, Beautyberry, Chokeberry, Winterberry, Pyracantha, and Yaupon Holly are all particularly beneficial as they produce fruit in fall and winter, when food sources are generally scarce. While not included in this list, fruiting plants like blueberries are also excellent for attracting birds.

Further Reading about Birds

For information about native birds you might encounter in your backyard, click here.

For plants to attract pollinators (including hummingbirds), click here.