Ou gardening tips to help birds in your garden in November and December

1. Provide clean, fresh water: As temperatures start to drop, ensure a reliable and unfrozen water source is available. Check, clean and refill bird baths regularly and consider using a small ball to stop the water from freezing over.

2. Plant winter berries and fruits: Think about planting things which provide winter berries, like holly and ivy in the winter. November is also a great time to plant fruit trees in the garden. Apple, pear, and cherry trees can be planted now, and will start growing in early spring. You can also plant blackcurrants, blackberries, strawberries and gooseberries, ready for the springtime to provide plenty of food for the birds and insects.

3. Create sheltered areas: As winter approaches, create sheltered areas in your garden with dense shrubs, evergreens, and hedges. These spots offer protection from cold winds and provide safe roosting places for birds. You can also gather fallen branches, leaves, and twigs to create brush piles in a corner of your garden.

4. Garden maintenance: Leaving seedheads and plant debris can provide food and shelter for birds throughout the winter. Delay major pruning until early spring to ensure you're not removing potential resources for the birds. A good use of time is to clear up excess fallen leaves from any ponds, as too many leaves can cause issues with water quality.

5. Plant trees and shrubs: If the weather is cold and dry, it's perfect for planting new trees and shrubs (avoid planting trees in waterlogged soil!). You can plant bare root blackthorn, dog rose and elder from November onwards, as long as the ground isn’t frozen.

By implementing these actions in your garden during November and December, you'll continue to offer a hospitable environment for songbirds as they navigate the challenges of the colder months. Your efforts will go a long way in supporting their well-being and survival during this time of year.

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The SongBird Survival Team

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