Seed Eaters, including sparrows, finches, juncos and doves, rely on seeds from native plants as their primary form sustenance throughout the fall and winter.

Insect Eaters, such as the woodpeckers, nuthatches wrens and chickadees, search for insects beneath the bark of trees, especially during the winter when insects are less active. Dead or decaying trees, known as snags, provide excellent foraging spots.

Berry Eaters like the American robin, eastern bluebird and northern mockingbird enjoy native berries like those from hollies and hawthorn bushes.

Winter-Resident Birds rely on native plants for cover in fall and winter. Evergreen foliage offers great shelter for many species, while dense plantings of native grasses and perennials for others.

As the seasons change and the air turns crisper, our gardens transform into crucial refuges for our feathered friends. Fall and winter bring unique challenges for native birds, but with the right native plants, we can create nurturing havens that sustain these winged wonders.

While they may not actively be in bloom during cold months, these plants provide essential food sources, shelter, and even nesting materials for birds. Here are some native plant species that are particularly beneficial to wildlife during the colder months:

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp.) - The seeds of black-eyed Susan plants are a nutritious winter food for finches, sparrows, and other seed-eating birds.

Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) - Coneflowers not only provide seeds for birds but also attract insects during the growing season, serving as a year-round resource.

Asters (Symphyotrichum spp.) - Asters produce small seeds that attract finches, sparrows, and other small birds during the colder months.

Sunflowers (Helianthus spp.) - Sunflowers are renowned for their abundant seeds, which are cherished by a wide range of birds, including cardinals, jays, and chickadees.

Goldenrods (Solidago spp.) - Goldenrods provide seeds and shelter for birds during the winter, supporting species like sparrows and finches.

The Summer Songbird Sale runs from Friday, August 22 through Sunday, August 24. During the sale, all native plants in the songbird collection are 20% off. No discount code required!