Plant in pots

Shrubs and perennials for birds

Cotoneaster: birds will thank you for the autumn berries on this shrub. It grows really well if you live by the sea.
Climbers: Plant them near a wall, fence or trellis – you can even put some in the pot. Ivy is a good choice as it’s one of the last species to fruit with berries. So when it’s getting cold and most other plants are dormant for the winter, it provides valuable food and cover for birds and insects. Or try honeysuckle which is a favourite with blackcaps for its nectar, and its berries are eaten by many birds.
You can use prickly plants to protect a feeding area from sly cats.

Native species: the best our wildlife can get. Anything that occurs naturally is more likely to be useful to native wildlife. Even so, if you want to plant a cultivated species in your container, it will still provide pollen, nectar and shelter for insects and invertebrates.
Lavender and catmint: for bees – they love them.
Verbena: its tall, purple flowers go down well with butterflies.
Jasmine and heather: some varieties flower in the winter and provide food when it’s really hard to come-by.
Soft fruit bushes: raspberries and blackcurrants make a lovely display – while they last! They’re so popular with blackbirds you’ll be able to delight in seeing them strip the branches hungrily. You’ll have to plant some more for yourself.

Some small trees will grow happily in tubs. Even some apple trees will do well in a large container.
Early food sources are crucial too, and you can provide nectar for insects in early spring with a small cherry or magnolia.
Don’t forget safety: if you’re putting your container on a roof garden or balcony, check it can support the weight. It might be heavier than you think.