Date: 1/10/13 12:29 pm
From: Warblerick <ricksussman1955...>
Subject: [MDBirding] Re: Bird Landscaping


On Wednesday, January 9, 2013 7:25:40 PM UTC-5, Laura Rinier wrote:
> I hope this isn't considered "off-topic"....
>
> We recently bought a house in rural Carroll County with about 3 acres of mostly maintained lawn with trees here and there. Our goal is to set aside about half the acerage for a lawn and the other half a bird sanctuary.
>
> One border of the lawn is in serious need of a wind break and we're curious what fast growing conifer would be recommended that is also bird friendly? I like the look and appeal of the Norway Spruce, especially since it attracts winter finches. Does anyone have any pros and cons for this evergreen? I am open to any and all suggestions/recommendations.
>
> Thanks in advance!
>
> Laura Rinier
> New Windsor, MD

Norway spruce is not a fast growing tree. They put on about 12 inches a year, as most conifers around here do, except the dwarfs, they put on about half as much. White Pine is a fast grower, but is messy, losing branches in wind and snow storms. I like Canaan Fir. Just planted one about half an hour ago (our live Christmas tree). Should be available at local xmas tree farms in Carroll County (that's where mine came from). A 4-5 ft live tree was $60 at Christmas time.

Rick Sussman
Woodbine,MD

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