Want to know how to keep birds out of ferns? Gardeners encounter several problems during planting and growing crops. If you have ferns in your garden, then you know that these plants attract birds.
Ferns are one of the most enjoyed plants for gardeners. Although they bear no flowers, their fanning out and straight leaves can look mesmerizing, especially in pots. This is why you will mostly see them hanging on porches or balconies.
Besides their beautiful green appearance, ferns are also beloved by birds to the point that they grow their younglings in them. What makes them an ideal nesting area is their enclosed structure.
Keeping the Birds Out of Ferns
This close-knit set up allows birds to easily construct their nest and shade their eggs well. As much as it is fun to witness a growing wild bird family, it is not as fun for your dying fern plant.
With precious eggs inside that you don’t want to destroy, the plant will be deprived of water. Not to mention that predators wanting eggs for breakfast may start to loiter around your ferns.
Tip #1: Decorate your ferns
Without having to shoo the birds away or transport the delicate eggs out of your ferns, the best approach to saving your plants is to avoid the nest from being built in the first place.
This means that you will need to be ready before displaying your ferns in the open area. One simple way that you can do this is to decorate them with toys or objects. Fake snake toys would be a great idea, for example.
These items will keep the birds away by making them think that the fern is already occupied or too dangerous to lay their eggs in. So, as you decorate your ferns, make sure to have this kind of appeal.
Of course, you can get creative in what to decorate with so that your ferns will still look good with them. Hanging up ferns during holiday seasons can certainly make it easier because the holiday decorations will match the season.
Tip #2: Check on your ferns regularly
Another thing that you could do without much effort is to check your plants often for any foreign materials. As soon as you detect birds coming in and out from them, make sure to remove their nest or bits of it before they can finish the job.
Over time, this will discourage the birds from nesting there and cause them to no longer come back or decide to go elsewhere.
In addition to this method, you can make as much noise as possible whenever you pass by or approach your ferns, such as opening and closing the doors loudly or stomping your feet.
The loud noises will make the birds think that the area is inhospitable for their younglings. Hanging up tinkling chimes or bells around the area can work as well.
Why Should You Use Greenhouses for Your Ferns?
Placing your ferns inside a greenhouse is another effective way to ward birds off your plants. Other than that, here are some of the reasons why you should consider getting a greenhouse for your plants:
Prevent pests from attacking your plants
As mentioned, greenhouses are beneficial for protecting your plants from animals and pests. Deer, moles, insects, and birds won’t be able to munch on your plants if you place them inside a greenhouse. As a result, this eliminates the need for chemicals and insecticides to prevent these pesky critters from ruining your plants.
All-year-round gardening
One of the greatest benefits of greenhouse gardening is that you’ll be able to plant crops all year round. Greenhouses allow you to control the temperature and the overall growing environment inside the enclosure. This means you wouldn’t have to wait for planting season to begin to start growing your plants.
More options for plants
A greenhouse is a perfect option for gardeners who want to grow plants that aren’t native to your area. You’ll be able to plant warm-weather or cold-weather plants, as well as exotic plants in your backyard. Just make sure that you understand the growing conditions of your plants and adjust your greenhouse according to your plants’ needs.
Longer growing season for your plants
Another benefit of greenhouses is that it extends your growing season. As mentioned, greenhouses provide a more controlled environment for your plants as you can adjust the temperatures, humidity levels, insulations, etc. In this way, you can grow your plants longer than usual.
Protect your plants from bad weather
Extreme weather changes can extensively damage your plants, especially more tender ones. Placing them inside a greenhouse protects your ferns and other plants from inclement weather.
Final Thoughts on How to Keep Birds Out of Ferns
Ferns, or any kind of plant for that matter, are essential when it comes to decorating your home with nature. That is why you should also be aware of each plant’s challenges on top of what each plant needs to thrive and flourish.
Apart from the effective methods mentioned above, there are many other ways that you can use to help you know how to keep birds out of ferns. All you have to do is think of alternatives for birds to nest in rather than your precious fern plants.