So you’ve got some beautiful hanging plants but instead of just enjoying them you’re suddenly playing host to a whole family of birds building nests. Fun in theory, maybe. In reality, not so much. I’ve been there. One minute it’s peaceful greenery; the next it’s a full-on bird nursery with feathers everywhere. If you’re wondering how to keep birds from nesting in hanging plants without becoming a full-time bird eviction officer, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about it.
In this article I’ll walk you through practical no-nonsense ways to keep birds from nesting in your hanging plants. You’ll get a mix of tried-and-true tricks, some you can try today, and a few ideas that might seem weird but actually work. Ready? Let’s get to it.
Table of Contents
Understand Why Birds Love Hanging Plants
Before jumping into solutions, it helps to know why birds like hanging plants in the first place. Spoiler: it’s all about safety and comfort.
Birds pick hanging plants for nesting because they provide shelter from predators. Hanging plants often offer great cover, making birds feel safe from cats squirrels or even the occasional curious human. They also protect nests from rain and sun. Plus, some plants supply twigs or soft fibers birds use to build nests.
Knowing this means you can target these exact reasons in your prevention strategy. For example, if shelter is the main draw make the plants less cozy or accessible.
Sounds simple but this one’s huge. Birds prefer undisturbed, dense spots to build nests. If your plants look like a jungle, they’re basically a bird invitation.
Keep Your Hanging Plants Well Maintained
Trim regularly to reduce thick foliage where birds can hide. Remove old nests immediately because birds often return to old nests or attract others if they see a used spot. Clear dead leaves and debris that add to the cozy factor.
Pro tip: I’ve noticed when I keep my plants tidy, birds tend to look elsewhere. It’s like they want the penthouse suite, not a messy studio apartment.
Use Physical Barriers to Block Access
Sometimes you have to get a bit more hands-on. Physical barriers keep birds from even landing where they want.
Effective barrier ideas include netting or mesh, light bird-friendly netting over or around your plants can block birds without hurting them. Spiky strips or bird spikes, these plastic spikes don’t hurt birds but make landing tricky. Hanging shiny objects like old CDs aluminum foil strips or reflective tape can scare birds off with their unpredictable flashes.
Just be careful with netting, make sure it’s secure and doesn’t trap birds accidentally. Safety first!
Try Natural Bird Deterrents
If you’re not into netting or spikes, nature’s got your back. Some smells and materials naturally repel birds.
What works includes peppermint oil spray, birds hate strong minty smells. Mix a few drops with water and spray on leaves. Vinegar spray, vinegar’s strong odor can deter birds but test on a small plant area first. Predator decoys like fake owls snakes or hawks can scare birds away. Just move them around occasionally, or birds will catch on.
FYI, I once tried the fake owl thing and swear it worked for a week. Then the birds just called it “Old Bubo” and ignored him. So rotate those decoys.
Change Your Plant Choices
Not all hanging plants are equally attractive to birds. Some plants practically scream nest here, while others are less inviting.
Plants birds avoid include ones with strong scents, like lavender citronella or eucalyptus. Plants with tough spiky leaves such as certain succulents or spider plants. Plants that don’t provide much cover, like trailing ivy instead of dense ferns.
Switching to less bird-friendly plants in your hanging baskets can help reduce nesting chances. I replaced one thick fern with a spider plant last year and nesting attempts dropped dramatically.
Use Commercial Bird Repellents With Caution
There are sprays and gels marketed to keep birds away, but they can be hit or miss.
Many use taste or smell to deter birds. Some are safe for plants, others less so. Effectiveness varies depending on bird species and persistence.
If you want to try repellents, look for ones labeled safe for your specific plants and apply according to instructions. I tried a gel once, and honestly it felt like the birds just moved their drama to the next door plant.
Distract Birds With Alternative Nesting Sites
Sometimes the best way to stop birds nesting where you don’t want is to give them a better option elsewhere.
How to offer alternatives: install birdhouses away from your hanging plants, place them in trees or on poles nearby. Create nesting platforms with easier access. Place nesting materials in a separate spot to lure birds away.
Think of it like setting up a cozy Airbnb for birds far from your plants. Works surprisingly well if you’re patient.
Final Thoughts
Keeping birds from nesting in hanging plants can feel like a never-ending battle. But with a mix of good maintenance smart barriers and maybe a little creativity, you can reclaim your green space without turning into a bird villain.
Remember, birds are just doing their thing and a little patience combined with these tips can go a long way. If all else fails, maybe your hanging plants were just destined to be the neighborhood bird condo.
Now go enjoy your hanging plants minus the unwanted feathered tenants.
