{"id":13988,"date":"2022-08-18T13:11:30","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T11:11:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gardensillustrated.com\/?p=20442"},"modified":"2022-08-18T13:32:14","modified_gmt":"2022-08-18T11:32:14","slug":"plants-for-birds-top-plants-to-feed-the-birds","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/gardensillustrated\/rss_feed\/plants-for-birds-top-plants-to-feed-the-birds\/","title":{"rendered":"Plants for birds: Top plants to feed the birds"},"content":{"rendered":"

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By Molly Blair\n \t\t<\/p>

Published: Thursday, 18 August 2022 at 12:00 am<\/p>

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It\u2019s as important as ever to kit out your garden for wildlife<\/a>, especially birds<\/a>. Fortunately, there are so many products on the market to support them, from bird baths<\/a> and feeders<\/a> to bird houses<\/a>. Another way of supporting birds in the garden is through the planting, as not all garden birds will be happy eating the basic seed mixes that we put out on our bird tables<\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

Many trees<\/a> and shrubs produce berries that are a vital food source for birds over the winter<\/a> months, and they also keep the garden looking bright and exciting when things can get a little grey. It is also a good idea to plant some herbaceous and annual plants that provide seeds<\/a> for birds earlier in the year too.\u00a0 Here we recommend some of the best plants to feed the birds, and hear from writer Isabel Osada about her recommendations.<\/span><\/p>\n

What makes a plant good for birds?<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are many characteristics that make plants attractive to birds. It is important to provide not only a food source but also protection and nesting sites. Although it\u2019s great to install artificial forms of shelter, garden birds will also benefit from planting that provides them with places to rest and perch. Plants that form berries or seeds that offer up a food source through winter are perfect for attracting birds to the garden. If you include all of these, then you\u2019ll ensure a regular stream of winged visitors. <\/span><\/p>\n

The best plants for birds<\/h2>\n

Rosa canina<\/em><\/h3>\n