How to Design a Landscape that Attracts Local Wildlife in Kelowna

Kelowna is known for its abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty. As a homeowner or landscape professional, you have the opportunity to create a backyard oasis that not only enhances the beauty of your surroundings but also attracts and supports local wildlife. Here are some tips for designing a landscape that attracts local wildlife.

Use native plants: Native plants provide important food and habitat for local wildlife and also require less water and maintenance than non-native plants. Consider incorporating a variety of native plants into your landscape, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground

cover. Some popular native plants include Mock Orange, Sumac, fireweed and brown-eyed Susan.

Provide water sources: Wildlife, especially birds, are attracted to water sources. Consider installing a birdbath, pond, or fountain in your landscape to provide drinking and bathing water for local wildlife.

Create shelter: Wildlife needs shelter to feel safe and protected. You can provide shelter for wildlife by planting shrubs and bushes, installing birdhouses and nesting boxes, or creating rock or log piles in your landscape.

Offer a variety of food sources: Different species of wildlife have different food preferences, so it is important to provide a variety of food sources in your landscape. Consider planting native flowers and shrubs that produce berries, nectar, or seeds, or installing bird feeders filled with a variety of seed types.

Limit the use of pesticides: Chemical pesticides can harm wildlife and their habitats, so it is important to minimize their use in your landscape. Instead, use organic methods to control pests and diseases, such as companion planting, proper watering and soil management, and introducing beneficial insects.

Incorporate wildlife-friendly features: incorporate wildlife-friendly features into your landscape, such as birdhouses, birdbaths, butterfly and bee habitats, and bat boxes. These features not only attract and support local wildlife but also provide aesthetic appeal and educational opportunities for you and your family.

By incorporating these wildlife-friendly practices into your landscaping, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape in Kelowna that benefits both the environment and your community. With the right approach, it is possible to balance your aesthetic goals with your environmental responsibilities and contribute to the preservation of Kelowna's natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

At Edgehill Lawn and Landscape, we specialize in building landscapes that incorporate the Okanagan's natural beauty.