Dear ##firstname[Friend]##,

‘Tis the season for contests! We’ve got a lot going on here at Birds & Blooms and I’m sure you do, too, with planting season just under way!

While you’re shopping and planting this spring, keep our Container Contest in mind. You could win a cash prize!

And we just kicked off our 14th annual Backyard Photo Contest! Find out how to enter, and send us your best photos today!

Kirsten Sweet
Birds & Blooms

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• Find us on Facebook
• Bird of the Month
• Best of Glad You Asked
• Project of the Month
• FREE Wallpaper
• Talk to Us!

Are you on Facebook? Facebook today for interesting bird and garden stories and exclusive updates!

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Bird of the Month: Eastern Phoebe

This insect-eating bird has earned the respect and admirations of bird-watchers all over the East.

Learn how to attract eastern phoebes to your yard, and listen to their song.

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Best of Glad You Asked

Preventing Pests
What kind of flowers should I plant near my vegetables to deter unwanted insects?
–Florence Uhler, Marietta, Georgia

Melinda: Nasturtiums and marigolds are traditional choices for insect control. Some gardeners believe these plants trap insects before they enter the garden. Others doubt their value, believing they actually attract insects. I’ve seen research supporting the claim that marigolds help control some pests, such as nematodes—a microscopic worm-like parasite. Otherwise, I’m not aware of studies that advocate planting marigolds for broad insect control. There are three more reliable ways to protect your garden from insects: Select hybrid vegetables that are pest resistant…stay on top of wedding duties (these unwanted plants often attract insects)…and remove pests as soon as you see them.     

No More Birds
When I replaced my bird feeder with a new one, I moved the old feeder about 6 feet. Since I made the change, I haven’t seen birds at either feeder. What could have happened?
–Lois Harvey, Sedalia, Missouri

George: It’s possible the new feeder is scaring the birds, or hat the food you’re offering is wet, moldy or undesirable for some reason.
Birds do have preferences about food and the kinds of feeders they use. American goldfinches, for example, prefer sunflower seeds, thistle (niger) and safflower seeds served in tube feeders with or without perches.
Northern cardinals, on the other hand, will not use a tube feeder unless it has a tray attached to the bottom so they can stand on a flat surface.
Natural cover is another consideration. If your feeders are now out in the open without natural cover around them, the birds fear they’ll have no place to escape if threatened.

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Project of the Month

You don't have to pay a lot for a one-of-a-kind birdbath. This spring, look for plants with large leaves to add to your garden. Then turn one of those big beauties into a birdbath.

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FREE Wallpaper

Download great wallpaper for your computer, like these gorgeous flowers against a blue sky!

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Talk to Us!

We are looking for budget tips for our new section “For Less”. Send us your best budget idea and photos by using Submit Your Story form. If we use it in the magazine, we’ll pay you $25!

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