Here in Visalia California and the San Joaquin and Central Valley we are no stranger to hot summers. Many of us seek out water holes to cool down, cold drinks and the shade of beautiful trees to help us to endure the heat while enjoying the outdoors.
As gardeners we often design our landscapes to attract birds and pollinators. The symbiotic relationship between the pollinators and our gardens is something that we can find joy in. Just like us, the wildlife that we attract needs water and shelter to survive the hot summers. How do we provide the best protection and care?
Care for the bees
Our flying friends need a safe place to quench their thirst too. You can place shallow dishes of water filled with pebbles around your garden and this will allow them to have a safe supply of water while they are busy at work in your garden. A couple other ways to protect the bees is to provide shelter. One way to do this is that you can leave a little patch of uncut lawn for them. If you can, avoid using pesticides and opt for natural alternatives such as companion planting. This will also provide extra foraging material for the bees.
Plant Ivy for shelter
Even though some of us don’t like Ivy, it can be useful in your landscape for wildlife. Birds and bats, as well as many hibernating insects will use this climbing plant for shelter and food. You can also provide bat boxes or bee boxes for additional shelter.
Add a pond to your property
This isn’t an option for everyone, and isn’t always ideal, but if you have the desire and opportunity adding a pond to your garden is one of the best ways to keep your garden wildlife healthy and happy. It’s important that the pond is topped with clean water to provide enough oxygen for fish and keep it free of weeds. If you do remove weeds, leave them near the pond overnight so that creatures hiding in them will be able to return to the pond. Ponds attract water beetles, diving beetles, caddisfly larvae, aquatic snails, water fleas and dragonfly nymphs.
Maintain your bird baths
Of course, step one is to provide a bird bath, but once you have on it’s important to maintain it. Ensure that you keep the bird bath full of fresh, clean water. On hot days this is extra important and will be much appreciated by the birds as they can drink and clean themselves as much as they need to. So, don’t forget about our thirsty little friends! Fill up your bird baths and make sure your fountains are running properly.
These simple tips can help make your garden wildlife-friendly and provide them a summer oasis that they will keep coming back to. The bonus is that you’re able to enjoy watching them and your garden will thrive!
