Seasonal Gardening Guide

Backyard Habitat ‘How To’

Winter is for the birds

Ever wonder how to make your garden a cold-weather refuge? Winter imposes demanding energy requirements on resident birds. When resources are limited, a little love from your backyard can go a long way to help.

Consider the following… 

Over the Garden Fence

My Garden

Elaine Wiersma lives on a small 0.5 acre property in Thunder Bay, Ontario which was certified ‘wildlife-friendly’ by CWF in 2011.

Read on to hear the story of her garden’s transformation »

Plant Profile

White Spruce

Picea glauca is found right across Canada and is an attractive winter tree, with evergreen boughs that hold snow in place. It is also great for animals, offering shelter from cold winds and providing nourishing seeds. If you have the space, consider adding it to your garden next year!

Read more »

Fun Stuff

Tilly hat giveaways

CWF is turning 50, and to celebrate Grow Wild is giving away birthday presents!

Learn more »

Gardening Calendar

Helpful Tips for Winter

• When you take down your Christmas tree, place it in your backyard as a winter shelter for birds.
• Spring clean-up can be easier if you spread a water-permeable "drop cloth," such as landscape fabric, under your bird feeder to catch sunflower hulls.
• Keep your bird feeders clean and healthy by clearing away damp hulls or seeds that have sat for a while.

For more tips on seasonal tasks, visit our online Garden Calendar.

Ask the Expert

Q : Are heated bird baths helpful in winter?

A : Yes, but there are potential dangers. If the weather is cold enough to feel the need for a heater, there is the chance that a bird’s feathers could freeze soon after bathing – a potentially fatal situation. Overwintering birds in these cold regions are adapted to the environment and manage with snow and open bodies of water. However, if you feel your bird feeder has caused birds to remain in the area rather than migrate and you are concerned, place a grid over the top so that only the bird’s beak fits through for a drink, but not the whole body.

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