Lynn Betts, NRCS

Why are patio gardens important to birds and the environment?

Birds and other wildlife are attracted to areas that offer food, water, shelter, and places to nest and rest. In the setting of a multi-unit dwelling, a patio or terrace garden stands out and can especially aid migrating birds that are looking for places to refuel. These green spaces serve as a refuge not only for wildlife, but for people as well, acting as a buffer to the harsh edge of urban life. Collectively, a series of green balconies or patios can cool a building and reduce heat island effect caused by heat reflecting from building surfaces.

Getting Started: What You Can Do

• Grow a garden in containers. Rather than exotic plants, use natives that are considered hardy. (They will experience low temperatures at a rate equal to a zone or two lower than those plants in the ground.) Native plants will also have the most value to visiting birds and other wildlife. Contact your local native plant society or arboretum to learn which plants may do best in containers. As a general rule, bigger containers are better, because they allow for healthy root growth. The planting medium should be lightweight and drain well. Compost mixed with perlite makes an excellent base substrate because of its dense nutrient value. Because the nutrient value will eventually be depleted, either through absorption or by leaching, a targeted, time-released fertilizer regimen is vital. Keep the roots of potted plants damp but not soaked. If your patio does not get sufficient sun of at least five hours, consider using shade-tolerant plants. Screen plants from excessive sun and heat in arid regions.
• Install a birdbath or other water feature. The sound of trickling water will create a peaceful space by masking ambient city sounds, and will also attract birds and butterflies. A circulating pump in a barrel, masonry, or pre-fabricated fountain can become a rewarding, low-maintenance feature.
• Set up bird feeders to attract both seed-eating and nectar-feeding birds. Include a catch tray to reduce the potential mess of seed hulls or purchase sunflower hearts (shelled sunflower seeds).
• Erect a birdhouse. Determine which bird species may be attracted to your space, and use the appropriate type of nest box, with a suitable-size hole. Avoid hanging nest boxes that would accommodate non-native species such as House Sparrows or European Starlings.
• Share your enthusiasm with your neighbors. Adjacent patio gardens will more readily attract birds and butterflies.

Helpful Links

• NRCS: Patio Plants for Birds and Butterflies
  
• University of Arizona, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Container Plants and Patio Gardens
• National Gardening Association - Patio Gardens