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Flower bed with bird bath


Landscape Ideas for Flowers in a Birdbath Garden | Home Guides

By Sandra Carusetta

Wildlife-friendly gardens offer an added dimension of pleasure to your home gardening experience with the cheerful activity of splashing, bathing birds. Positive benefits to the community accrue as a variety of wildlife, drawn to the forage and sanctuary you provide, engenders healthy biodiversity while reducing the need for chemical interventions. A birdbath garden bed, brimming with flowers, birds and insects, becomes a lively focal point with a carefully selected variety of plants.

Birdbath Garden Basics

  1. Set up your birdbath in sheltered, dappled shade. Birds love to bathe in shallow gradually-sloping bowls with rough texture for sure footing. Showcase a birdbath in a dedicated circular, crescent or geometric flowerbed or at a wide spot in a border. You can choose the flowers surrounding the birdbath simply for their aesthetic value as long as there are trees, shrubs and plants in graduated heights -- including evergreens, berry plants, grasses and native flowers -- throughout the garden to provide shelter and forage for birds. Since leaf litter and plant debris harbor insects that birds relish, allow some areas of the yard to remain minimally tended if possible. The nectar, fruits or seeds of flowering plants also nourish your feathered visitors.

Flowering Shrubs and Perennials

  1. Clouds of fragrant, nectar-rich summer flowers on English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) shrubs make a charming birdbath backdrop in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. The fragrant foliage and nectar-rich flowers of shrubby sage (Salvia spp.) attract birds in the same USDA hardiness zones. California natives include California blue sage (S. clevelandii), rosy-pink hummingbird sage (S. spathacea) and light-purple Santa Rosa Island sage (S. brandegeei). Common beardtongue (Penstemon barbatus), growing in USDA zones 3 through 8, sports nectar-filled white, pink, orange or scarlet flowers that hummingbirds adore. The exaggerated daisies of purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) bloom in summer, leaving autumn seeds behind to feed birds in USDA zones 3 through 8. Tough sea tomato roses (Rosa rugosa) provide a hedge of fruit and shelter for nesting birds and fragrant roses in the spring, summer and fall for the gardener in USDA zones 4 through 10.

Flowering Vines and Ground Covers

  1. Clematis (Clematis spp.) vines will scramble along the ground or grow through rosebushes or on trellises as backdrops for spectacular flowering birdbath garden displays in USDA zones 5 through 9. Surrounding your birdbath with ground-hugging creeping phlox (Phlox stolonifera), will carpet the ground in spring with low mounds of foliage-obscuring red, pink, lavender or white flowers, while its solid mats of evergreen foliage remain attractive year-long in USDA zones 2 through 8. The hairy, evergreen foliage of sun roses (Helianthemum nummularium) foils masses of yellow, pink or white flowers resembling single roses in late spring. Sun roses will mound and trail over decorative rocks in a natural-looking birdbath setting in USDA zones 6 through 8.

Annual Flowers

  1. Annual flowers keep the birdbath flower bed fresh-looking, providing seasonal color mixed between immature or faded perennials. Native California poppies (Eschscholzia californica) create dazzling golden spring displays. Refined strains such as "Sunset," "Mission Bells" or "Thai Silk" offer varieties in expanded color ranges including cream, yellow and red shades. Plant petunias (Petunia x hybrida), pansies (Viola cornuta), moss rose (Portulaca grandiflora), annual sage varieties (Salvia spp.) and other colorful annuals as they become available locally. Many annuals offer nectar or seeds for birds.

References

Resources

Writer Bio

Since 1984, Sandra Carusetta has written advertising copy and promoted custom art businesses to a worldwide clientele. Carusetta's career history includes professional florist, private cook, writer and small business owner. Carusetta has published numerous informative online articles on gardening and cooking.

10 styles to add to your garden |

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Adding one of these bird bath ideas to your garden is essential for the wellbeing of our feathered friends. Bathing loosens the dirt in the birds' feathers and makes it easier for them to preen – a process that enables them to maintain the health of their feathers, keep warm and to distribute the oil that keeps their feathers waterproof. 

Whether you opt for a majestic stone structure or a more minimalist hanging design, bird bath ideas are a quick and simple way to incorporate more wildlife garden ideas into your plot. 

‘Bird baths are one of my favorite recommendations for gardeners seeking to expand the variety and concentration of wildlife in their gardens,’ says Marc Parnell, author of The Birding Pro's Field Guides . 'In fact, some home bird baths attract over 50 species each year.'

Bird bath ideas to add to your garden

Adding a bird bath is a great way to attract birds into your garden. With a vast array of bird bath ideas from which to choose, it will be easy to find the perfect style to complement your backyard ideas. 

'Bird baths provide garden birds with fresh, clean water all year round. During the warmer months birds can struggle to find sources of water for drinking and bathing, so adding a bird bath to your garden will help them thrive,' explains Will Haxby, ornamental sales director at Haddonstone . 'Likewise, during the fall and winter, birds still need water to survive, especially when ponds and streams are frozen over.' As well as providing water during the colder months, it is also important that you ensure you are feeding birds in winter as food is often scarce during this period. 

1. Consider stone bird baths for a traditional and permanent feature

(Image credit: Haddonstone)

With a classic aesthetic, stone bird bath ideas are sure to create an elegant addition to your garden ideas, especially if you are channelling a more traditional look such as Georgian garden design or Victorian garden design.

Crafted from cast stone, this Baluster design from Haddonstone is frost-proof, meaning it can stay in your garden all year round and will age beautifully to blend into your garden scheme.

When considering stone bird bath ideas, it is worth noting that they are one of the heaviest options. While this is great if you live in an area that is prone to winds, the weight can make your bird bath more difficult to move and clean. If you are likely to need to move your bird bath then perhaps consider ceramic, which has a similar look to stone but carries a fraction of the weight.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

In recent years, there has been an increase in more minimalist bird bath ideas. Rather than your bird bath having to be a statement in its own right, these slimline designs, usually on a thin metal stand can easily be integrated into your borders or lawn. Metal and glass are popular materials for minimalist bird bath ideas and are fairly light-weight, making them easy to move and clean when necessary.  

3. Consider the depth of your bird bath

(Image credit: RSPB)

When researching bird bath ideas, it is important to consider its depth. 'To allow different species to bathe safely, we advise between 1 and 4 inches deep,' says Claire Smith, director of product and partnerships from CJ Wildlife . 'It’s also important that the bird bath has sloping sides or rough surfaces and perches for the birds to grip onto and not slip.'

Look for a bird bath with a gradated basin so that it incorporates both shallower and deeper areas, this will help different species to bathe. 'If selecting a deeper bird bath, make sure you add a few stones to the bottom to ensure smaller birds have somewhere to perch and can also get out easily,' continues Claire. Adding a few stones to the shallower parts of your bird bath will also provide bees and butterflies with a spot to land and drink. 

4. Add a ground level bird bath 

(Image credit: CJ Wildlife)

As well as considering bird bath ideas that are on stands, also think about adding a ground level bird bath to your garden.

'Ground level bird baths are great for ground feeding birds such as robins, blackbirds & thrushes, who prefer staying close to the ground. However, with the bird bath being on the ground comes the added risk of predators being able to threaten birds whilst they drink or clean themselves,' says Claire Smith. 'Pop your bird bath near an opening or corner where they have the best chance of flying away if they need to.'

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Bird bath ideas aren't restricted to the classic saucer on a plinth design. In fact, there are lots of decorative designs that can suit a wide range of gardens. If you are looking for bird bath ideas that will add a focal point to your backyard, consider a statue that features an integrated bird bath. 

6. Bird bath ideas with a fountain

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Garden fountain ideas make for a beautiful addition to your garden decor, offering a soothing soundtrack to your space. However, they are also great for your feathered-friends. 'A central bubbling feature, if present, helps to prevent insects (and their larvae) from settling and congregating around the bath,' says Marc. They will also help to attract birds to your bird bath and can help to prevent the water from freezing in cooler temperatures.

7. Add a bird bath to your decking

(Image credit: Wayfair)

Incorporating a bird bath into your patio ideas or deck ideas is a great way to make your garden more wildlife-friendly. There are plenty of different ways to add bird bath ideas onto your decking, porch or patio. If you are considering adding a freestanding bird bath, opt for a lightweight material such as metal or glass, as heavier stone designs could cause your decking to bend.

Alternatively, consider bird bath ideas that attach to your patio or porch balustrade or garden fence ideas. Featuring a clamp instead of a post, they can simply be attached onto the top of the fence, it is a great space-saving way of adding a bird bath to your garden.   

8. Add a hanging bird bath to a small garden

(Image credit: Dibor)

Hanging bird baths are a great choice for small garden ideas as they don't occupy any of the limited floor space. Adding hanging bird bath ideas are also a good choice for the birds. Since the bird bath is nestled in a tree, the birds are covered while they bathe, making them less vulnerable to a surprise attack.

If you don't have any suitable trees in your garden, consider hanging a bird bath from a hanging basket bracket. Position in a shady spot and you'll soon have a flock of feathered friends coming to take advantage of their new spa facilities. 

One thing to consider with hanging bird baths, as well as other bird bath ideas, is their placement.  ‘Bird baths are best situated at least 25 feet away from any nearby windows. This helps to prevent bird-window strikes, which account for hundreds of millions of avian deaths at residential properties each year in the United States,' says Marc.  

9. Consider a heated bird bath in winter

(Image credit: Getty Images)

It is vital to provide a source of water for birds in every season. In summer, droughts can mean that water is scarce, while in winter, freezing temperatures can make water equally hard to come by. Opting for a bird bath with an integrated heater is a great way to ensure that it doesn't freeze. Alternatively, you can add a separate electronic de-icer to your bird bath ideas. However, both of these options will require electricity and this in turn will restrict the position of your bird bath.

Other ways to prevent your bird bath from freezing include adding a fountain or placing a tennis ball or apple in your bird bath – all of these methods make it more difficult for the ice to form a skin on the surface of the water. 

During cold weather, be sure to check your bird bath regularly. If you find it is frozen over, simply defrost by pouring cool water over the surface. Avoid pouring hot water over the bird bath as the sudden change in temperature can cause the bird bath to crack. Also avoid the use of any chemical deicers as these can prove toxic to birds.

10. Keeping your bird bath clean

(Image credit: Gardenesque)

Regardless of which bird bath ideas you decide to add to your garden, keeping it clean is essential. 'Bird baths must be cleaned at least twice each week. Each basin must be completely emptied, scrubbed clean, soaked in a 1:10 bleach-to-water solution, and thoroughly rinsed before being refilled,' says Marc Parnell. 'If these tasks are not diligently completed, the bath can become a breeding ground for various avian diseases – defeating the original purpose of supporting local bird life.'

Should a bird bath be in the sun or shade?

Your bird bath should be in the shade as it will keep water fresher and cooler. It will also reduce the amount of evaporation and as such will mean that you don't have to keep refilling your bird bath multiple times each day.

'Bird baths should be located on a flat, even surface.  They can be positioned on a patio, terrace, lawn or within a border, depending on your personal taste and available space.  If you locate your bird bath under a tree you will need to remove any fallen leaves and branches from the water as these can decay and cause the water to become dirty,' recommends Will Haxby, ornamental sales director at Haddonstone.

Why are birds not coming to my bird bath?

There are many reasons why birds might not be coming to your bird bath. 

Firstly consider the position of your bird bath. Bathing is a vulnerable time for birds as they are focused on preening rather than predators. Therefore, they will be more likely to visit a bird bath where they feel safe. Position your bird bath in a shady spot, close to trees and prickly bushes as these will offer a safe space for the birds to survey the scene before bathing.

It is also important to keep your bird bath clean and full, birds won't visit a dirty bird bath. You can also try adding a fountain to your bird bath ideas as this will make your bird bath more attractive to visiting birds who will be drawn to the sound and sight of the moving water.

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

Interesting ideas for decorating a dacha: Photo

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You can decorate your site with a variety of items. These do not have to be new trendy decor items that are sold in hypermarkets and other stores. nine0003

Having dug through your sheds and closets, cellars and cellars, sometimes you can find things that you forgot about a long time ago. After all, it is always a pity to throw them away, what if they are still useful ?! And if someone has recently bought a house in the village, then they have a chance to find something very interesting and rare.

All these old items that are not needed in the household can be breathed a second life. And then these things will bring you joy, and the garden - their individuality and special flavor. Ideas for decorating a garden plot are literally under our feet, you just need to dream up a little. Let's start!? nine0003

Unusual flower beds

Old buckets and watering cans, broken bicycles, old shoes, suitcases and many other unnecessary things are suitable for the basis of such flower beds. In addition, flowers can be placed in various snags or logs.

The most daring gardeners find this use even for old beds, bathtubs and, I beg your pardon, toilet bowls!

A fence that can be decorated with flowers by attaching planters, flower pots or anything else where flowers can be placed. Such a fence will immediately become brighter and more fun. And your neighbors will just envy you, looking at such beauty! But let it be white, kind envy! nine0003

You can try making a cactus frame and hang it... like a picture. We wrote about winter-hardy cacti here.

Other garden decor ideas

The arch in the garden always looks beautiful, especially when entwined with lianas. You can make it yourself from reinforcement or flexible wire. With fittings, of course, you have to tinker longer. But such a product will be stronger. Well, sweet peas or Ipomoea are suitable as greens. nine0003

Wood can also be used to make an arch. If the site is elongated, then it can be divided into functional zones using arches. And then the installed arch will, as it were, invite you and your guests to go further into the garden, where there is something interesting, something that is not visible at first sight.

If birds are frequent guests in your garden, and you are always happy for them, then you can prepare a kind of bath for them. Especially birds will be happy to take such a bath in the heat. For this, any container filled with water and suspended on a wire is suitable. Or it can be mounted on a stand. nine0003

Old garden tools that have fallen into disrepair can also be reused.

Wooden pallets can be good garden furniture.

In a word, thanks to your imagination, you can make a garden not only beautiful, but also interesting, unlike any other, with its own history.

nine0000 Unique garden design, some interesting tricks

How the weather does not resist, but spring comes into its own, and therefore I want to talk a little about such an issue as garden design. After all, spending time in a beautiful garden is always very pleasant and useful, and for this you need to take care in advance about what design your garden will have.

Green and blooming nature soothes the soul and inspires creativity, we love to walk in beautiful community gardens, where beautiful garden design, but when it comes to planning your garden, many ideas and possibilities can seem impossible. nine0003

But that's not the case, there are many unique landscaping ideas out there and perhaps some of the best options could be quite feasible.

Ordinary flower bed

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Colorful flowers can be arranged in flowerbeds - terraces. Even better, the combination of flowers with greenery creates an interesting modern effect.

Another option for a flower bed is stones, concrete and horizontal wooden beams that define the flower bed. Sometimes a little unexpected decision can give a great result, and bring joy.

Garden of Flowers

Speaking of the unexpected, we should definitely mention the spotted garden, which combines undersized flowers, lush vegetation and stones, creating a feast for the eyes.

Flower containers

Don't forget the power of interesting containers. Low flowers in a large assortment in juicy colors, but at the same time carefully selected, which is more like a work of art. Don't forget to add tall plants, and some greenery around the edges. And so that the plants do not disturb the rodents, you can buy a rat and mouse repeller. nine0003

Delicate shrubs

Trimmed hedges evoke the magic of an English garden. Planting shrubs inside the flower bed creates a modern look full of charm.

Attractive arches

Vine arches in the yard are always delightful, and if such an arch is covered with flowers for part of the year, then the result is a natural paradise filled with various shades of green.

Cascading Vegetation

For texture and length, add Silver Falls. Who said that a sparkling waterfall has to be liquid?

Paths in the garden

Paths run throughout the garden, so why not make these paths beautiful.

Instead of just placing tiles, you can leave some space between the stones. The result is a mesh that becomes lush when filled with grass. nine0003

Creating a border for the passage makes the tiles attractive and more visible, especially when the dark stone is surrounded by white stones.

Birdbaths and Fountains

Birdbaths and fountains are a great addition to a garden, especially when they are in a prominent position.

Learn more