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
Hi again, Laura.
I live in southern Carroll county, also with just over 3 acres of what was mostly lawn. I have converted two sizeable chunks of "lawn" to natural meadows, planted about 50 trees (mostly natives that will benefit the birds, either with food or shelter)) so far around the property, and have plans for more. We have 4 medium size Norway spruces in front that were here when we bought the place. I really do like them (they are about 20 years old and about 20 feet tall). No problems or complaints with them. I planted another Norway spruce about 3 years ago (another live Christmas tree), and it seems rather slow growing compared with my Canaan fir. Right now it attracts an occasional mockingbird perching in the top, and sometimes chipping sparrows as well. Always looking for owls or perhaps crossbills in the old ones but nothing yet. Did have a RBNU in them earlier around Christmas time.
Think about letting a portion of the yard run wild, as a meadow of sorts. The birds and other wildlife would appreciate it.
Rick Sussman
Woodbine,MD
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