Gardening Tips

How to attract birds & butterflies

For Birds:

  • Set up feeding stations around your yard or garden.
  • Provide them with some water. Water that is dripping or trickling is the best, but a shallow dish or bird bath will do too.
  • Place your feeders near trees; that way birds will have places to hide.
  • Make sure to keep their water fresh.
  • To attract hummingbirds, buy a hummingbird feeder and fill with a mixture of sugar and water that is 1 part sugar to 6 parts water.

For Butterflies:

  • Plant milkweed plants; they are a great way to attract butterflies.
  • Butterflies are attracted to yellow, red, orange, pink and purple flat-topped or clustered flowers.
  • They love the sun so consider putting umbrellas and shade covers down.
  • Buy a butterfly feeder at a garden center. Fill your feeder with a water and sugar mixture of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.

Backyard Inspiration

Is it time for a backyard upgrade? Here are a few things to consider adding to your yard to give it that special inviting touch.

  1. String Lights- these commercial grade lights are made to withstand all weather conditions so they can last you year-round. The warm glow not only lights up the space in the dark but provides a warm comfortable feeling to the space.
Source: Jenna Sue Design
Source: Ashleybrookedesigns.com

2. Fire pit- there are several different types of fire pits: natural gas, wood burning or propane. Choosing the one that is best for you depends on your needs. Propane fire pits work great on a deck or patio and are easily refilled at a gas station when they run out. Wood burning fire pits are best for bigger yards and for those who crave more of a rustic, campfire feel. Natural gas will add a permanent fire pit to your yard, but require a gas line to be installed.

Source: At Lucys House
Source: Nogayla

3. Patio plants- keep the flow to your outdoor space by adding greenery to your sitting area. Potted plants, hanging plants from a pergola or climbing vines on a fence are all great ways to incorporate more plant life to your patio.

Source: Thekissingbooth.com
Source: loveandrenovations.com

4. Texture- adding a rug, throws and pillows to your outdoor sitting area really help make your patio feel cozy and warm and like an extension of your home.

Source: Chaylorandmads.com
Source: rainandpine.com

5. Outdoor kitchen- enjoy cooking outside with a built-in kitchen. A bar is a unique addition to the backyard and adds extra seating for more guests.

Source: justdestinymag.com
Source: buildwithrise.com