Hey everyone! I'm a bit new to gardening and really passionate about attracting wildlife to my backyard. I've noticed how wonderful it is to see different animals and insects around, so I'm curious about what native plants I could grow in Middle Tennessee that would help feed deer as they pass through and also support a variety of insects for the ecosystem. I do want to avoid attracting deer mice, though, so any advice on plants that might deter them would be super helpful! If you need more details, just let me know!
3 Answers
For attracting wildlife, focus on native flowers and flowering shrubs. They'll draw in pollinators and other wildlife naturally. I'd also recommend the Prairie Moon Nursery; their website lets you filter plants by your state and conditions. Plus, native goldenrods and black-eyed Susans are great starts! Just keep in mind that some plants like oaks attract deer, so you might have to use cages to protect them when they're young. If you're keen on education, check out Doug Tallamy's work about biodiversity—his books like "Bringing Nature Home" are super insightful!
Hey, fellow gardener in East TN! I've been getting into native plants myself—definitely look into asters and purple coneflowers; they’re native and will help attract beneficial insects! This is also a good time to sow seeds. If you have space, consider adding shrubs like spicebush or elderberry. They not only provide food but also cover for wildlife. Just make sure to check their light needs before planting! Happy gardening!
Check out the Tennessee Native Plant Society! They can point you to local chapters and resources. It's a fantastic way to get connected and learn more about the native plants in your area. Good luck with your gardening! 💚