But sustaining these gardens, no matter the type, does not go without its challenges. Besides the many maintenance practices that must be carried out regularly, there are the issues of garden insect pests, with their destructive behavior that can turn a thriving garden into a nightmare if quick action is not taken.

Because of the damage these pests cause, control methods were implemented. However, one of these methods ( toxic pesticides), especially if mishandled, can cause much harm to humans, pets, wildlife, and beneficial insects. This practice may give good results in eliminating garden pests but can prove detrimental to our environment and ecosystem contaminating our lakes, rivers, streams, and water systems.

Because of this awareness, a safer approach has been taken with the introduction of biological (beneficial insects) control. Companion planting, and the implementation of organic pesticides. Another method of control that has gained popularity is the practice of using birds to control garden pests. For more on how this is done continue reading.

Encouraging Birds in our Landscape and Gardens

Although we will have a few birds from time to time visit our gardens which is a part of natural occurrence what we want is to have them visit our gardens regularly for this process to be effective. Here are a few ideas that can be implemented.

• A great way to attract birds into our landscapes and gardens is to make our gardens attractive and inviting by adding native plants this will catch their attention and draw them in.
• A water source such as a birdbath where they can drink and take a bath.
• Adding a bird feeder. Be very careful not to overfeed these birds because the goal is to attract them to your garden to have a feast on garden pests.
•  Installing one or two birdhouses in different locations in your garden will help make your garden more inviting.
• Allow that dead tree to remain as long as it is not hazardous to you, your family members, or your pet. A dead tree provides a cavity where birds can dwell and raise their young and because they’re near your garden will use garden pests as a food source to consume and feed to their young.
• If possible don’t clean up your garden during the fall months wait until the following spring, the reason for this is by allowing leaf litter to accumulate birds can scratch for insect pests that seek to overwinter.

The beauty of this all is that birds help to bring balance to the ecosystem which is so beneficial.

Can you imagine your gardens and landscapes being transformed by The presence of our feathered friends?

You will be pretty amazed at how many insects, these birds can consume and the best part is you will be” killing two birds with one stone”

Providing a home for them and keeping your plants safe and happy.

Other Benefits of Having Birds Visit Your Garden

• Your garden can also attract some singers who will say thank you by whistling a tune for you.
• Watching birds interact is a great activity for adults and kids.
• Watching birds feed and take care of their young can be exciting.
• Seed-eating birds will consume weed seeds that contribute to weed control.
• The singing or chirping of birds is a great stress reliever.
• Some bird species feed on rodents such as mice, rats, and voles which will help with rodent issues.
• The presence of hummingbirds can help to pollinate garden plants.

Additional information

What we have discussed is a safe and natural approach to controlling insects, but there are times when pesticides must be introduced especially in the case of an infestation that’s so severe that quick action must be taken. Then another alternative will be to use organic pesticides especially when dealing with food crops. However, before applying pesticides read and follow the manufacturer’s directions for the best results.

Conclusion

Biological control can be very effective when introduced in our landscapes and gardens so I want to encourage you to give this method a try as it has proven over and over again to give good results as we connect and work hand in hand with nature for a safer environment and by all means a beautiful garden that is inviting. A place where you can kick off your shoes and relax as you take in all that beauty that connects you will all that nature has to offer which is a natural stress reliever that can promote mental as well as physical health.