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Urban and Suburban Backyards

© Murdo Morrison

My recent article, "The Tree Has Many Branches" prompted the following response:

'I took a look at the NJ Backyard Habitat tour and I was wondering how many here think that is a good habitat? I don't see any wild areas that are required by many species of birds. Quite frankly, the only thing I see a lot of in that habitat is lawn. Doing something is better than doing nothing, but I think any real habitat needs to mimic, as Murdo has pointed out, the ecology of what used to be there before development moved in. Keeping a wild area, and carefully weeding it to keep out non-native or invasive species, is probably more work than a flower border, and probably less understood by the neighbors, but I think is an essential ingredient to any backyard habitat. "

Since the garden in question is my own, it occurred to me that the time was right for an article to address the issues faced by those trying to create wildlife-friendly gardens in the often less than ideal situations provided by urban and suburban settings. It is very important to realize that wildlife gardening is not 'all or nothing'. In particular, I want to stress to people who own such properties that, while true 'wildness' may not be practicable on your quarter-acre or less lot, it is still possible to create a garden that is worthwhile.

When I work on these articles I try to remember the audience that has the potential to make the largest change. They are the homeowners and caretakers of public spaces who can become inspired to make those places more ecologically sound. If an appreciation of the importance of wildlife gardening is to become as important an influence as recycling in our society, it is important to have a realistic concept of the practical issues faced by urban and suburban gardeners.

Interestingly, the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) stresses the importance of providing the basics of food, water, cover and places to raise young. 'Wildness' may be aesthetically more pleasing to many (including myself). However, the NWF approach is to encourage a style of gardening that is more nurturing of wildlife. Having a variety of plants present that meet the food needs of birds, butterflies and other species is critical. Therefore, it was quite possible for our garden to be reviewed and pass muster with the NWF as a Certified Backyard Habitat.

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