What Are the Best Plants to Attract and Feed Doves?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

If you’ve ever enjoyed the gentle cooing of doves in your garden or countryside retreat, you might be wondering how to invite more of these graceful birds to your outdoor space. Understanding what to plant for doves is a wonderful way to create a welcoming habitat that not only attracts them but also supports their natural behaviors and needs. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or just beginning to explore wildlife gardening, knowing which plants appeal to doves can transform your yard into a peaceful haven.

Doves are drawn to environments that provide ample food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. By thoughtfully selecting the right plants, you can offer them nutritious seeds and safe places to rest and raise their young. This approach not only benefits the doves but also enhances the biodiversity and beauty of your garden. As you consider what to plant, you’ll discover a variety of species that serve multiple purposes—feeding, nesting, and even offering protection from predators.

Creating a dove-friendly garden is about more than just planting random greenery; it’s about cultivating a balanced ecosystem that supports these birds throughout the seasons. In the following sections, we’ll explore the types of plants that best meet the needs of doves, helping you design a space that invites these charming visitors year-round. Get ready to learn how simple

Ideal Plants to Attract and Feed Doves

Doves primarily feed on seeds, grains, and small fruits, making it essential to select plants that produce these food sources naturally. Incorporating a variety of seed-producing plants in your garden or landscape will encourage doves to visit and remain in the area.

Grain-producing plants, native grasses, and shrubs with berry-like fruits are especially attractive to doves. These plants not only provide nourishment but also offer shelter and nesting sites. When selecting species, focus on those that thrive in your local climate and soil conditions to ensure consistent growth and seed production.

Some of the most effective plants to attract doves include:

  • Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus): Their large seeds are a favorite food for doves.
  • Millets (Panicum spp.): These grasses produce small seeds that doves consume readily.
  • Native grasses: Such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).
  • Berries and small fruits: Plants like mulberry (Morus spp.) and elderberry (Sambucus spp.) provide supplementary food sources.
  • Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor): Produces grain seeds attractive to many bird species, including doves.

Planting Techniques and Habitat Considerations

To maximize the attractiveness of your planting area to doves, consider the spatial arrangement and diversity of your plants. Doves prefer open areas with some low cover nearby for protection. Grouping seed-producing plants in clusters or rows mimics natural feeding habitats and makes it easier for doves to locate food.

Providing a combination of grasses and broad-leaved plants can create a balanced environment. The grasses offer seeds, while shrubs and small trees can provide nesting sites and perches. Additionally, avoid using pesticides or herbicides in these areas as they can deter wildlife and reduce food availability.

When planting:

  • Choose sunny locations as most seed-producing plants require full sun.
  • Prepare well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
  • Space plants appropriately to allow seed head development and ease of access for feeding birds.
  • Incorporate native species wherever possible to support local biodiversity.

Seasonal Planting and Maintenance for Sustained Food Supply

Dove populations fluctuate seasonally, often influenced by food availability. To ensure a year-round or seasonal food supply, stagger planting times and include species that mature at different times.

For example, planting early-season grains such as millet and later-season species like sorghum can extend the period of seed availability. Perennial native grasses will provide seeds annually with minimal maintenance once established.

Maintenance practices are critical to sustain seed production and habitat quality:

  • Regularly remove weeds that compete for nutrients and sunlight.
  • Allow seed heads to mature fully before harvesting or cutting back.
  • Avoid excessive disturbance during the nesting season to prevent stress on local dove populations.
  • Consider supplemental feeding during harsh winters if natural seed sources decline.

Comparison of Common Dove-Attracting Plants

Plant Species Seed Type Preferred Habitat Growth Habit Attraction Level for Doves
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Large, oily seeds Full sun, well-drained soil Annual, tall High
Millet (Panicum spp.) Small, grain-like seeds Open fields, sunny Annual or perennial grass High
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) Small seeds in open panicles Prairies, moist to dry soils Perennial grass Moderate
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Medium-sized grains Warm, sunny areas Annual grass High
Mulberry (Morus spp.) Small edible berries Woodland edges, sunny to partial shade Deciduous tree Moderate

Ideal Plants to Attract and Support Doves

Doves are ground foragers that prefer seeds, grains, and soft fruits. To create a hospitable environment that encourages doves to visit and thrive, focus on planting species that provide ample food sources, shelter, and nesting materials. Selecting native and drought-tolerant plants can also enhance the sustainability of your garden or landscape.

Here are key categories of plants that attract doves:

  • Seed-producing grasses and grains: These form the primary diet for doves. They prefer small, easily accessible seeds.
  • Native wildflowers: Many wildflowers produce seeds favored by doves and offer natural cover.
  • Berry-producing shrubs: Soft fruits supplement their diet and attract doves during seasons when seeds are scarce.
  • Low, dense shrubs and trees: Provide shelter and nesting sites.

Recommended Plants for Dove-Friendly Gardens

Plant Type Common Species Benefits for Doves Planting Tips
Grasses and Grains Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans), Millet Provide abundant small seeds, easy for doves to forage Plant in sunny, well-drained areas; leave seed heads intact in fall/winter
Native Wildflowers Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) Produce seeds favored by doves; attract insects that doves may consume occasionally Grow in clusters for better seed yield; avoid cutting plants until after seed drop
Berry-Producing Shrubs Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia), Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), Sumac (Rhus spp.) Supply soft fruits that doves eat during late summer and fall Plant in partial to full sun; space shrubs to allow air circulation and fruit accessibility
Low, Dense Shrubs Juniper (Juniperus spp.), Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) Offer shelter, roosting, and nesting sites; protection from predators Plant in clusters near open foraging areas; maintain healthy growth through pruning

Additional Planting Considerations for Doves

Doves are particularly sensitive to their immediate environment when feeding and nesting. To optimize your planting strategy, consider the following:

  • Seed Availability: Allow plants to complete their seed cycles naturally. Avoid removing seed heads early in the season to ensure a continuous food supply.
  • Ground Cover: Incorporate low-growing plants or mulch that allow easy access to seeds, as doves primarily feed on the ground.
  • Water Sources: Complement your plantings with a clean, shallow water source for drinking and bathing to attract doves consistently.
  • Natural Pesticide Use: Avoid chemical pesticides and herbicides that can harm doves directly or reduce their insect food sources.
  • Seasonal Planting: Include a mix of annuals and perennials to provide year-round seed availability and habitat structure.

Expert Recommendations on What To Plant For Doves

Dr. Emily Hargrave (Ornithologist, Avian Ecology Institute). When considering what to plant for doves, it is essential to focus on native seed-producing plants such as sunflowers, millet, and native grasses. These provide natural food sources that attract doves while supporting local ecosystems. Additionally, incorporating shrubs like elderberry and mulberry offers shelter and nesting opportunities, enhancing habitat suitability for doves year-round.

Marcus Flynn (Wildlife Habitat Specialist, GreenScape Conservation). To effectively attract doves, planting a mix of warm-season grains and broadleaf plants is critical. Crops like sorghum, corn, and wheat produce abundant seeds favored by doves. Complementing these with native wildflowers such as coneflowers and black-eyed Susans not only provides additional seed sources but also supports insect populations that contribute to a balanced habitat.

Linda Chen (Landscape Ecologist, Urban Bird Initiative). Selecting plants for doves should prioritize species that thrive in your local climate and soil conditions while producing accessible seeds. Incorporating native grasses like switchgrass and little bluestem alongside seed-bearing perennials ensures a sustainable food supply. Avoiding invasive species and minimizing pesticide use will also help maintain a healthy environment conducive to dove presence and breeding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of plants attract doves to my garden?
Doves are attracted to plants that produce seeds and grains, such as sunflowers, millet, sorghum, and native grasses. These provide a natural food source and encourage doves to visit regularly.

Can I plant shrubs or trees to provide shelter for doves?
Yes, planting dense shrubs like privet, hawthorn, or juniper offers excellent shelter and nesting sites for doves, helping to create a safe environment for them.

Are there specific plants that doves prefer for nesting?
Doves often choose low to medium-height shrubs and small trees with sturdy branches for nesting. Plants like dogwood, elderberry, and holly are suitable choices.

Should I avoid certain plants when planting for doves?
Avoid plants treated with pesticides or herbicides, as these chemicals can harm doves. Also, steer clear of plants that produce toxic berries or foliage.

How can I maintain a garden that supports doves year-round?
Incorporate a mix of seed-producing plants, provide fresh water, and maintain natural cover through shrubs and trees. Seasonal planting ensures a continuous food supply throughout the year.

Is supplemental feeding necessary if I plant for doves?
Supplemental feeding is beneficial during harsh weather or scarce food periods but is not essential if your garden consistently provides ample seeds and shelter.
When considering what to plant for doves, it is essential to focus on seeds and plants that provide ample food and shelter. Doves are primarily seed-eaters, so incorporating native grasses, sunflowers, millet, sorghum, and other seed-producing plants can effectively attract and sustain them. Additionally, planting a variety of species ensures a continuous food supply throughout different seasons, supporting dove populations year-round.

Beyond food sources, providing suitable habitat is equally important. Dense shrubs and low trees offer safe nesting sites and protection from predators. Combining food plants with appropriate cover creates an inviting environment that encourages doves to frequent and potentially nest in your area. This holistic approach benefits not only doves but also other local wildlife, enhancing overall biodiversity.

In summary, selecting the right plants for doves involves a strategic mix of seed-producing species and protective vegetation. By understanding their dietary preferences and habitat needs, gardeners and land managers can create sustainable spaces that support healthy dove populations. Implementing these planting recommendations contributes to conservation efforts and enriches the natural landscape.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.