How to Keep Birds Out Of Hanging Baskets
If you’re like many people, then you love spending time outdoors in the summertime. One of my favorite things to do is relax on the porch with a cold drink and enjoy the beautiful weather.
However, one of my biggest pet peeves is when birds start going through my hanging baskets trying to find food. In this post, we’ll go to share some tips on how to keep birds out of hanging baskets.
What Are Hanging Baskets?
Hanging baskets are a type of container gardening that is ideal for small spaces. As the name suggests, hanging baskets are suspended from a hook or hanger, allowing plants to cascade down for a dramatic effect. Hanging baskets are typically made from coir, wicker, or plastic, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Many believe that hanging baskets are only suitable for flowers, but they can be used to grow a wide range of plants, including herbs, vegetables, and even fruit. With proper care, hanging baskets can provide a burst of color and life to any space.
Why Should You Keep Birds out Of Hanging Baskets?
Hanging baskets are a great way to add a splash of color to any space, but they can also be inviting homes for birds. While a small bird’s nest may seem harmless, there are actually a few good reasons to keep birds out of hanging baskets. For one thing, bird droppings can damage plants and encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi.
In addition, nests can block irrigation systems and cause waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Finally, birds can also be carriers of diseases that can harm both plants and people. So while it may be tempting to let birds build nests in your hanging baskets, it’s best to keep them out for the health of your plants and yourself.
10 Ways to Follow on How to Keep Birds Out Of Hanging Baskets
Birds can be a real nuisance when they start nesting in hanging baskets. Their droppings are unsightly, and their nests can block the drainage holes and cause water to accumulate, which can rot the plants in the basket. Here are a few tips on how to keep birds out of your hanging baskets:
1. Use a Basket Liner
A liner will prevent the bird from accessing the soil, which is where they typically look for food. You can find basket liners made of plastic or metal at your local garden center.
2. Add Some Greenery
Plants with thorns, such as roses or holly, can deter birds from coming too close to your hanging baskets. You can also try adding some greenery with a strong scent, such as lavender or mint. These will help to keep the birds away while also making your home smell nice and fresh!
3. Put Up a Barrier
You can also keep birds out of hanging baskets by creating a physical barrier. Netting or plastic wrap can work well for this. Simply drape the material over the basket and secure it in place.
This will create a barrier that birds cannot penetrate but will allow light and water to reach the plants still. You may need to experiment with different materials and techniques to find what works best for your setup.
4. Use a Decoy
If you’re really having trouble keeping birds away from your hanging baskets, you can try using a decoy. For example, you can purchase a fake bird or owl from a garden center or even make your own with some chicken wire and feathers. Place the decoy in your hanging basket, and the birds will hopefully stay away.
Be sure to move the decoy around periodically, as birds can catch on that it’s not real. You may also want to try using a motion-activated sprinkler to keep birds away. These devices will spray water whenever they detect movement, and the sudden blast of water should scare the birds away.
5. Try a Commercial Repellent
There are a variety of commercial bird repellents on the market that can be effective at keeping birds away from hanging baskets. These products typically come in a spray or gel that can be applied outside the basket. Some of the most popular brands include Bird-X and Herbal Armor.
If you decide to go this route, be sure to read the instructions carefully before applying the repellent. In most cases, you’ll need to reapply the repellent every few days or after it rains.
6. Use Chicken Wire
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you can try using chicken wire to keep birds out of your hanging baskets. Simply cut a piece of chicken wire to fit over the top of the basket and secure it in place with wire or zip ties. The sharp edges of the chicken wire will deter birds from landing on or near the basket.
7. Hang the Basket From a Tree
Birds are less likely to bother hanging baskets that are out of their reach. If you have a tall tree in your yard, try hanging your basket from one of its branches. You can also place the basket on a high shelf or ledge.
8. Use a Bird Feeder
One way to keep birds away from your hanging baskets is to offer them an alternative food source. Put up a bird feeder in your yard and fill it with bird seed. The birds will be drawn to the feeder and will hopefully leave your hanging baskets alone.
9. Move the Basket Frequently
Birds will eventually figure out where you’ve hidden your hanging baskets if you keep them in the same spot all the time. Try moving the baskets around your yard regularly to throw the birds off. You can also try placing different kinds of objects in and around the baskets, like wind chimes or Mylar streamers, to make them more difficult for birds to approach undetected.
10. Try an Ultrasonic Repellent
You can try using an ultrasonic repellent if you’re still having trouble keeping birds away from your hanging baskets. These devices emit a high-pitched noise that is only audible to animals and can effectively deter birds. Just be sure to place the repellent close to the basket to be most effective.
That’s it! You’ve now learned how to keep birds out of hanging baskets. With a little patience and perseverance, you should be able to find a method that works for you.
You Can Check It Out to Hide Laundry Basket in Bedroom
How to Choose the Right Plants to Deter Birds From Nesting in Your Hanging Baskets
While many people enjoy the beauty of birds, there are some instances where their presence is unwelcome. If you’re trying to deter birds from nesting in your hanging baskets, choosing plants that will make the area unattractive to them is the best course of action.
The type of plant you choose will depend on the species of bird you’re trying to deter. For example, consider planting impatiens or petunias if you’re trying to keep sparrows away. Both of these plants have dense foliage that sparrows find unappealing.
Similarly, if you’re trying to keep starlings away, plant lantana or fuchsia. These plants produce berries that starlings find unpalatable. By choosing the right plants, you can create a hanging basket that’s both beautiful and bird-free.
What to Do if A Bird Has Already Taken up Residence in Your Hanging Basket
Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time to start hanging your flower baskets! But what should you do if you find that a bird has already taken up residence in your basket?
The first step is to assess the situation. Is the bird actually nesting in your basket, or just using it as a perch? If it’s just a perch, you can probably safely shoo the bird away. However, if the bird is nesting, you’ll need to take a different approach.
If the bird is nesting, your best bet is to leave it be. The bird will eventually move on, and in the meantime, you can enjoy watching it raise its young. Once the nest is abandoned, you can remove it and get back to enjoying your hanging basket! Keep reading for more information about how to keep birds out of hanging baskets.
How to Prevent Birds from Getting Into Your Hanging Baskets in The First Place?
It’s no secret that birds love the outdoors. They sing and chirp, adding music to the fresh air. They soar through the sky, adding excitement to a sunny day. And they build nests, providing homes for their young. Unfortunately, however, birds can also be pests, especially when they build nests in hanging baskets.
The weight of the nest can cause the basket to sag, and the bird droppings can damage plants. So how can you prevent birds from getting into your hanging baskets in the first place? One way is to choose a basket with a tight-fitting lid.
Another way is to cover the basket with netting or wire mesh. And finally, you can try hanging the basket from a shepherd’s hook or other similar structure. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of birds without having to deal with the mess they can leave behind.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to keep birds out of your hanging baskets, try using one or more of the tips we’ve shared. With a little bit of effort, you can keep those pesky critters from ruining your plants! Thanks for reading our post about how to keep birds out of hanging baskets.
