How to Stop Birds Eating Grass Seed: 8 Practical Tips

Introduction

Birds can be a great addition to any garden, but they can also cause some major problems – especially when it comes to eating grass seed. If you’ve been struggling to keep birds away from your lawn, don’t worry; there are several solutions that can help you protect your grass seed. In this article, we’ll explore eight practical tips for stopping birds from eating your grass seed.

Invest in Bird-Proof Netting

Bird-proof netting is one of the most effective ways to protect your grass seed from birds. It’s a plastic or metal mesh material that can be draped or stretched over your lawn to keep birds away. The netting creates an impenetrable barrier that prevents birds from accessing the grass seed and makes it difficult for them to land on the lawn.

Installing bird-proof netting is relatively easy. You can purchase rolls of netting from your local garden centre or online. Unroll the netting and drape it over the area you wish to protect. Secure the edges with stakes or heavy stones, and then trim off any excess material. Make sure the netting is taut so that it forms an effective barrier.

Use Physical Barriers

Physical barriers can also be used to deter birds from eating your grass seed. These include items such as wire mesh, chicken wire, and plastic fencing. They create a physical barrier that prevents birds from accessing the grass seed, but they’re not as effective as bird-proof netting. Plus, they’re more visible and may detract from the aesthetic of your garden.

Wire mesh, chicken wire, and plastic fencing all have their advantages and disadvantages. Wire mesh is strong and durable, but it’s not very attractive. Chicken wire is less expensive, but it’s not as strong. Plastic fencing is lightweight and easy to install, but it’s not as durable as other materials.

Plant Larger Plants

Another way to protect your grass seed from birds is to plant larger plants around the area. This will make it harder for birds to access the grass seed, as the plants will act as a natural barrier. Plus, larger plants can add colour and texture to your garden.

Some good options include shrubs, trees, evergreens, and flowering plants. Shrubs provide year-round cover and can help to create a lush, green landscape. Trees can provide shade and create a beautiful backdrop for your garden. Evergreens are great for providing privacy and blocking out noise. And flowering plants can add a burst of colour to your yard.

Hang Visual Deterrents

Visual deterrents can also be used to keep birds away from your grass seed. These include items such as reflective tape, balloons, ribbons, and wind chimes. The idea is to create a visual distraction that will startle birds and discourage them from landing on your lawn.

Where you hang your visual deterrents depends on the type of bird you’re trying to deter. For example, if you’re trying to keep pigeons away, hang the deterrents near the ground. But if you’re trying to keep sparrows away, hang the deterrents higher up. Experiment with different heights and locations to see which works best.

Spray the Grass Seed

You can also spray your grass seed with a bird repellent to deter birds from eating it. There are many repellents available on the market, including those made from hot pepper, garlic, or citronella. You can also make your own bird repellent by mixing equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

To apply the repellent, simply spray it onto the grass seed. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear protective gear when spraying. Reapply the repellent every few weeks or after rain.

Set Up Scarecrows or Motion Activated Sprinklers

Scarecrows and motion activated sprinklers can be used to frighten birds away from your grass seed. Scarecrows are traditional garden decorations that are designed to look like people. When birds see them, they’ll be startled and fly away.

Motion activated sprinklers are devices that detect movement and spray water when triggered. They’re an effective way to keep birds away from your grass seed, as the sudden burst of water will scare them away. Place the scarecrow or sprinkler in an area where birds are likely to land.

Install Bird Feeders Away from Grass Seed Area

Finally, you can try installing bird feeders away from the area where you’ve planted your grass seed. This will attract birds away from the grass seed and give them a safe place to eat. Make sure the bird feeders are placed in an area that’s easily accessible for the birds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to stop birds from eating your grass seed. Investing in bird-proof netting is one of the most effective solutions, but you can also try using physical barriers, planting larger plants, hanging visual deterrents, spraying the grass seed with repellents, setting up scarecrows or motion activated sprinklers, and installing bird feeders away from the grass seed area. With these tips, you’ll be able to keep birds away from your grass seed and enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn.