Prevent Birds Eating Grass Seed 

Grass seeds are a natural food for many birds such as sparrows, finches, blackbirds and starlings. Even though many grass seeds are coated with bird repellent, hungry birds can overcome the aversion to the bird repellent and feed on the seed.

These are some methods that can help prevent birds from feeding on the grass seed and ensure your newly sown grass has the chance to germinate.

 

1. Use temporary bird deterrents
   Always use seed that has bird repellent. LawnPro Smart Lawn Seed and other LawnPro products containing grass seed have bird repellent coatings. Although birds can overcome the aversion to repellents, they do reduce the amount of seed taken, if any.
2. Give birds another food source
   Provide other food for the birds. If you give the birds alternative food such as at bird feeders, they will prefer that to the repellent seed. It is best to site the alternative food well away from the lawn.
3. Use temporary bird deterrents
   Visual movement can help discourage birds while your seed is getting established. Bird–scaring tape, reflective streamers or other lightweight reflective deterrents can be attached to stakes around the seeded area. Moving objects and reflections can make birds less comfortable landing in the area. These deterrents are most useful when moved or changed regularly, as birds can become accustomed to them.
4. Cover the seed
   For smaller areas, fine garden netting can provide a physical barrier between birds and the seed while still allowing light and water through. Make sure the netting is secured properly and kept off the soil where possible to prevent birds becoming tangled.
5. Keep the seed covered with a thin layer of soil
   Raking the seed lightly into the soil after sowing can help make it less accessible to birds while still allowing it to germinate. Don't bury the seed too deeply, as grass seed generally needs good contact with the soil and access to light and moisture to germinate.

 

David Brittain
Kiwicare