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Creating a lush and vibrant lawn requires the germination of grass seeds. But, a problem for gardeners is birds eating grass seed and stopping the lawn from growing well. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of overseeding, strategies to prevent birds eating grass seed and much more.
Which Birds Eat Grass Seed?
The types of birds eating grass seed can vary by region, with certain species being more prevalent in specific areas. In various parts of the country, you may encounter the following common seed-eating birds:
- Quails: Found mostly in regions like Dorset, East Anglia, the Welsh Marches, and across the south of England and Wiltshire, quails have a particular fondness for grass seeds. They can voraciously feast on these seeds in substantial quantities, leaving your lawn vulnerable to their appetites.
- Doves and Pigeons: Doves and pigeons are known for their affinity for grass seeds. These birds can quickly detect the presence of freshly sown seeds and are eager to enjoy this nutritious food source.
- Sparrows: Sparrows are small and agile birds that are skilled at spotting newly laid grass seeds. They are among the most common seed-eating birds, and a freshly seeded lawn can become a sought-after dining spot for them.
- Finches: Like sparrows, finches are also avid consumers of grass seeds. Their small size and adaptability makes them capable of reaching hard-to-reach seeds. This poses a challenge for gardeners trying to protect their newly sown lawns.
- Starlings: Starlings are notorious for their voracious appetites, and grass seeds are no exception. These birds can quickly become attracted to your lawn if they sense the presence of seeds, potentially causing disruptions to the germination process.
It is worth noting that while crows and jays may be attracted to your lawn due to the presence of grass seeds, they are less likely to consume the seeds. However, their presence can still be a nuisance and may disrupt the seeding process.
Diversion Food Strategy
A practical approach to deter birds eating grass seed is to offer them an alternative food source that piques their interest more than the grass seeds themselves. While grass seeds might not appear appetizing to birds, you can entice them away with more appealing options. Consider the following foods to redirect their attention:
- Sunflower Seeds: Birds, especially finches and sparrows, are particularly fond of sunflower seeds. Placing a small pile of sunflower seeds away from the freshly sown lawn can attract these seed-eaters, luring them away from your grass seeds.
- Ground-Feeding Bird-Specific Food: Many pet stores and garden centres offer specialized bird food blends specifically designed for ground-feeding birds. These mixes often contain a variety of seeds, nuts, and grains that appeal to birds like quails and doves, which are typical grass seed enthusiasts.
- Rice or Sultanas: While not typical components of a bird’s natural diet, rice and sultanas can act as temporary treats to divert birds from your grass seeds. Scatter a small amount of these food items strategically around the garden to draw the birds’ attention away from the seeded area.
- Bird Feeders for Specific Birds: Although bird feeders might not be an instant solution, they can still be useful for attracting certain bird species. Consider using ground feeders or trays for attracting ground-feeding birds like quails and doves. This way, these birds can indulge in the provided seeds without turning to your grass seed for sustenance.
Remember that the goal of this food strategy is to provide a more enticing alternative for the birds, reducing their interest in your grass seeds. By offering a variety of appealing foods in different areas of your garden, you can successfully divert their attention and protect your newly sown lawn from their prying beaks. Set up your wooden garden lounge furniture so that you can relax while watching the birds feast on your bird feeder.
Quick Start Seeds or Fast Grass
An excellent solution to counter the threat of birds eating grass seed is to opt for quick-start seeds or fast grass varieties. These specialized seeds are designed to have a nutrient coating that expedites the germination process, reducing the time they spend in the vulnerable seed state.
The nutrient coating provides essential elements that promote rapid growth, helping the seeds sprout quickly and establish themselves as grass plants. This accelerated germination typically takes around 4 days under ideal conditions.
However, despite their quick growth potential, a four-day period can still leave your grass seeds susceptible to avian predators. Birds, especially sparrows, finches, and other quick-eyed seed-eaters, can quickly discover the freshly sown seeds and decimate your expensive seed bed before the grass has a chance to establish itself.
To address this challenge, it’s crucial to combine the use of quick-start seeds with other protective measures. Employing techniques like straw or mulch covering, fine mesh netting, or diversionary food strategies can further shield the seeds during the vulnerable germination period. By implementing a multi-faceted approach, you can ensure the success of your quick-start seeds and establish a thriving, bird-resistant lawn.
A Fine Mesh Netting
An excellent way to safeguard your grass seeds from avian predators is by using fine mesh netting, similar to what you’d use to protect fruit bushes. However, the key is to elevate the net above the ground to ensure birds cannot access the seeds. While it may involve some cost and setup challenges, this method provides an effective defence against bird interference, allowing your grass seeds to germinate undisturbed. By employing fine mesh netting alongside other protective measures, you’ll create the perfect environment for a flourishing and bird-free lawn.
Bird Repellent Grass Seed
Bird-repellent grass seed is specially designed with a coating to deter birds from consuming the seeds during germination. While some formulations achieve the desired effect, results can be inconsistent. Certain birds such as pigeons may remain undeterred, reducing its effectiveness.
Beyond unreliability, bird-repellent grass seed comes with other downsides. It can be costly compared to standard varieties, and the selection of grass species may be limited, restricting lawn choices.
Considering these factors, weigh the benefits and drawbacks before using bird-repellent grass seed. If you decide to try it, combine it with other protective measures like fine mesh netting, diversionary food strategies, or straw coverings to enhance its performance. This approach maximizes the chances of a thriving lawn while keeping birds at bay.
Simple Grass Seed Protection Strategy
A straightforward, efficient, and budget-friendly method to safeguard your grass seed from birds is to sow half as much grass seed again. This ingenious approach designates half of the seed for the birds’ enjoyment while the remaining half establishes your new lawn. It’s an ideal solution for areas that are challenging to protect due to size or location.
Adopting this strategy offers additional benefits. If the birds don’t consume the seed allocated to them, you’ll witness a thicker lawn emerging sooner, a delightful prospect for any gardener.
However, a word of caution is necessary, particularly when seeding patches. Avoid excessive seed coverage, as it can draw the birds’ attention and lead to dense tufts of grass, causing visual and mowing difficulties.
For patching, follow the recommended guideline of using 10 – 20 seeds per square inch. Doubling the amount for this protection strategy provides ample nourishment for both your lawn’s health and the birds’ share. With this balanced approach, you can create a thriving lawn that harmoniously coexists with nature’s feathered inhabitants.
If you would also like to free your garden of cats, check out these plants that deter cats.
Garden Fleece
Garden fleece is an incredibly effective method to safeguard your grass seed and accelerate germination by raising the soil temperature. Its permeable nature allows rain to penetrate, which can be beneficial for the seeds. However, it also allows for evaporation, so supplemental watering might be during dry spells.
One of the advantages of using garden fleece, especially during warm weather overseeding, is that it permits the underlying grass to breathe and prevents overheating.
At the time of writing in 2022, garden fleece is priced around £38 for a 4m x 20m size, making it a reasonably affordable option for protecting your grass seeds and promoting healthy germination.
Polythene Sheeting
When it comes to protecting your grass seed, there’s no doubt that polythene sheeting reigns supreme as the best method. Its straightforward and reliable nature makes it an unbeatable choice. For further guidance and expert advice, refer to the next page.
Why Overseed Each Year
Maintaining a young and healthy lawn is vital, and the key to achieving this is through annual overseeding. Overseeding involves sowing new grass seed over your existing lawn, especially in areas with bald patches or thinning turf, to revitalize its vigour.
Overseeding is highly recommended in the following scenarios:
- After Scarifying: Following scarification, when your lawn might appear thin and worn, is the ideal time to introduce fresh grass seed. This practice aids your turf in bouncing back and regaining its lush appearance.
- Post-Winter Revitalization: After the winter months, when your grass might look depleted and lacklustre, overseeding can breathe new life into your lawn, rejuvenating its greenery.
- Addressing Yellow or Dying Spots: If you notice yellow or dying spots on your existing lawn, overseeding can help fill in these areas and restore uniformity.
Alternatively, you might consider sowing an entirely new lawn from scratch.
However, bear in mind that birds have a voracious appetite for grass seeds, and if left unchecked, they can swiftly consume your entire lawn. But fret not – there are numerous effective methods to prevent birds from feasting on your precious grass seeds.
Can You Buy Grass Seed That Birds Won’t Eat?
If you’re looking to purchase grass seed that birds won’t eat, you have several options to consider. Different bird species have preferences for certain types of seeds, so choosing grass seed that is less appealing to them might help discourage their appetite. However, it’s essential to recognize that results can vary, and while some birds may be deterred, others might remain undeterred.
According to gardening expert Henna Bell from Gardening Hood, not all grass types offer the same level of resistance to bird feeding. Opting for bird-resistant grass varieties when sowing your lawn can be beneficial. Fescues, bluegrasses, and rye grasses are among the most bird-resistant grass types available. Additionally, taller grass varieties can serve as an effective bird deterrent.
When selecting grass seeds, also consider the best fast-growing grass seeds, as these will promote quick lawn regeneration and help keep the birds at bay. By making smart choices and incorporating bird-resistant grass varieties, you increase your chances of maintaining a flourishing lawn that stands up to avian visitors.
Take Action
By understanding the reasons behind birds eating grass seed and implementing the appropriate strategies, you can effectively protect your lawn during the crucial germination phase. Whether it’s using straw or mulch covering, employing bird scarers, utilizing diversionary food tactics, or investing in bird-repellent grass seed, there are numerous ways to keep pesky birds at bay. Moreover, overseeding annually ensures the long-term health and resilience of your lawn.
So, take action now to safeguard your grass seeds and pave the way for a vibrant, bird-free, and beautiful lawn that will be the envy of the neighbourhood. Happy gardening!
FAQs
To safeguard newly sown grass seeds against bird interference, there are several effective techniques you can employ. One option is to lay down netting or mesh over the surface of your lawn. This acts as a barrier, preventing birds from landing and accessing the seeds. Another approach is to hang CDs or tin foil across your yard, creating reflective surfaces that deter birds by reflecting light and disturbing their feeding patterns.
Yes, certain bird species such as sparrows, finches, starlings, and pigeons are known to be common consumers of lawn seeds. To safeguard your newly sown grass seeds, you can employ measures like using mesh or netting to create a physical barrier or applying a thin layer of compost to cover the seeds.
When it comes to deterring birds, especially smaller ones that have a tendency to target grass seeds, there are a few effective methods you can try. One option is to place a realistic-looking fake bird of prey in a prominent position at the centre of your lawn during the germination period. The presence of the decoy bird will discourage small birds from approaching. Alternatively, you can play recorded bird of prey sounds in the early morning and evening, when birds are most active. This auditory deterrent can effectively deter birds from feeding in your lawn.
Sources
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). (n.d.). Quail. Retrieved from https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/quail/#:~:text=Quails%20are%20distinctive%20due%20to,%2Dmy%2Dlips%E2%80%9D%20call.
Pest.co.uk. (n.d.). What Do Pigeons Eat? Retrieved from https://pest.co.uk/what-do-pigeons-eat/#:~:text=Feral%20pigeons%20eat%20a%20variety,worms%20when%20they%20need%20to.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). (n.d.). Starling. Retrieved from https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/starling/
BirdFact.com. (n.d.). Finches in the UK. Retrieved from https://birdfact.com/articles/finches-in-the-uk
