Page 26 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • April 3, 2013 When thinking about a new landscape, or enhancing existing gardens, consider adding plants that will attract birds and butterflies. Shrubs like butterfly bushes, honeysuckle, roses, and many annuals will attract hummingbirds to scarlet tanagers and chickadees. By providing food and shelter for these creatures, your garden will come alive in a whole new way. It will be a part of the healthy, natural environment that extends beyond your property. Try these tips to bring wildlife into the garden (Photo courtesy of Carolyn Lagattuta) Adding more interesting plants will also increase your own enjoyment of your gardens, frequently year-round. For example, red and yellow twig dogwoods, and barberry have fall and winter color. Evergreens with varied colors and textures can also bring life to the colder seasons. However, it is good to keep an open mind. Plants that some might consider weeds are often the most attractive to bees and interesting birds. The wonderful thing about a garden is that it is a small piece of a larger, intricate ecosystem that brings aesthetic pleasures all year. The challenging thing about a garden is that not all of the elements and creatures within this ecosystem are welcome. Animals like deer, raccoons, or groundhogs can be regarded as adorable visitors or pests depending on where you live. It can be difficult to limit the visitors to those we appreciate and keep out the mosquitoes, ants, mice, etc., that will also find your efforts inviting. One solution to contain the impact of these pests is as simple as location. Creating a garden habitat often includes densely placed trees, shrubs, and perennials. To deter the wildlife you are attracting from sharing the inside of your home, planning this space away from the house is generally a good rule of thumb. Enlist the help of a knowledgeable landscape designer to help you work within nature’s systems to keep your garden healthy and interesting. A professional will help you find the right plants to attract the nature you want, while limiting your exposure to the unwanted elements as much as possible through plant choices. Whether you want to welcome all wildlife or just butterflies and hummingbirds, a good designer will first consider your tastes, but also consider your challenges with children, pets, local wildlife, and the surrounding environment before making recommendations. This article was submitted by R&S Landscaping in Midland Park. For more than 25 years, R&S Landscaping has offered environmentally responsible, high-end service to residential, public, and commercial properties in the areas of design/build, grounds maintenance, irrigation, lighting and plant health care. For a free landscaping consultation, contact R&S Landscaping at (201) 447-6205 or service@rscape.com. Information is also available at www.rscape.com.