The backbone of any landscape is
trees and shrubs. Besides being a shelter for wildlife, some species of trees, shrubs and plants provide a food source as well.
First, take inventory of what is currently in your yard. Note the conditions
and placement. Do the trees provide ample shade? Do you have a mixture of deciduous (definitions) and evergreen trees? Do the plants and trees provide for wildlife?
Then, begin
to plan your additions. What trees, shrubs or plants can you add that will enhance your yard, as well as attract the wildlife you would like to have around? The additions of plants or trees do not need to be done all at once. It can be a work in progress,
and be added to each year until you reach your vision of a perfect wildlife refuge.
You
might start with the trees first. Evergreen trees provide year round shelter, and some provide berries. Nut or fruit bearing
trees provide food sources as well as shelter. Deciduous trees provide a lot of shade during the summer, but none in the winter.
Once you have the trees in place, begin filling in with shrubs. Shrubs also come in deciduous
and evergreen varieties, as well as flowering or berry bearing. Keep in mind if the shrub will be planted in shade or sun,
and also the eventual size of the shrub.
After the trees and shrubs, begin filling in
with plants and flowers. There are two main types...perennials, which come back every year...and annuals, that only live for
a season. I try to plant more perennials, but if you want instant color, or flowers for baskets, annuals are the best
bet.
When you are looking at perennials and annuals, remember to consider the position
of the plant, and it's light requirements. Some plants only thrive in full sun, and others in full shade. If you have
any questions on the light requirements, ask the nursery or your local garden club or extension office.
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