NATIVE PLANTS OF OREGON

Native plants attract wildlife

If you plant a native plant garden they will come--wildlife that is. Using natives in landscaping helps sustain native butterflies, moths and other beneficial insects, native birds, reptiles, mammals, and other fauna. Fall migrating birds depend on high-energy fruits from flowering dogwood and elderberry. Spring migrants feed on insects that occur on oak trees. Maple and other native trees provide nesting habitat, while Western red cedar, ponderosa pine, and black hawthorn provide winter cover and food.

It is possible to transform any small garden space into a refuge that many species can use. Choose plants that flower and fruit at different times so pollen, nectar, seeds and fruit of one sort or another will always be available. Deciduous plants provide an adundance of tender new growth and decaying plant parts provide food for many creatures. Wildlife depends on insects and insects will thrive on the natives in the garden. They are the balance in the balance of nature. Predators such as birds, spiders and ladybugs need them as a supply of food.

Mammals are attracted to the fruit bearing trees and shrubs, as well as the browsers who graze on the underbrush and grasses. Incorporating plants and wildlife in your garden is great but added interests such as sculptures, bird houses and benches make your garden become fascinating and a pleasure to sit in and enjoy. Groupings of plantings, art and natural features not only look great but encourages wildlife to participate in your own little corner of nature.

Features that will add dimension to your garden and attract wildlife could be a water feature--the butterflies, birds, and mammals all require water to drink and bathe in. There are many semi-aquatic and aquatic native plants that will compliment your water feature.

Another feature that will contribute to your garden is debris piles made from fallen branches, mulch, straw, or compost. Garter snakes love them, and they love slugs! Debris piles are excellent for small mammals and birds. Ground-foraging birds such as dark-eyed juncos, white-crowned sparrows, and brown towhees need a pile that has air-spaces.

A third added feature would be stones or rocks stacked low on the ground for reptiles and amphibians. The small air spaces left in the base of the stones provide great protection and potential hibernation spots for toads, salamanders, and lizards. My rock pile is a home for garter snakes.

Incorporating some or all of these features along with the native plants that attract the wildlife will provide you with a terrific spot for wildlife watching. Like any garden endeavor, beauty is a desired goal. Be selective and find attractive plants and objects to use. Providing these plants and features will be an open invitation for local wildlife and be of great beauty for your enjoyment.