Birds are known to enjoy a variety of seeds, and ornamental millet is no exception. Goldfinches and sparrows are particularly fond of the seeds produced by ornamental millet plants. If you want to attract these beautiful birds to your garden, leaving the plants in place longer than most annuals can be a great idea.
One of the benefits of ornamental millet is that it can provide a food source for birds even after the growing season has ended. The seed heads of the plants remain intact and can continue to provide nourishment to birds throughout the fall and winter months. This can be especially important during times when natural food sources may be scarce.
While some gardeners may be concerned about the self-seeding nature of ornamental millet, there is generally no need to worry in areas with cold winters. The seeds of ornamental millet will not survive freezing temperatures, so self-seeding is not usually a problem. This can be a relief for gardeners who prefer to have more control over their garden’s appearance.
In my own experience, I have found that leaving ornamental millet plants in place for an extended period can be a great way to attract birds to my garden. The sight of goldfinches and sparrows perched on the tall stalks, feasting on the seeds, adds a lively and natural touch to the landscape. It is always a pleasure to observe these birds up close and see them benefit from the food source provided by the ornamental millet.
To sum up, birds do indeed enjoy ornamental millet. Goldfinches and sparrows are particularly drawn to the seeds produced by these plants. Leaving the plants in place longer than most annuals can provide a valuable food source for birds, especially during colder months. The self-seeding nature of ornamental millet is typically not a concern in areas with cold winters, as the seeds will not survive freezing temperatures. So, if you are looking to attract birds to your garden, consider planting ornamental millet and enjoy the beautiful sight and sounds of these feathered visitors.
