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How to Attract Wildlife to My Farm

To some people, there is nothing quite so beautiful as wildlife roaming across an open field. Many times, however, the only way to see wildlife is to visit a park where there are designated areas for viewing animals. Wildlife will also come into a private area, such as a farm. Fruit- and nut-bearing trees are a good way to draw animals, since they provide food and shelter for our furry and feathered friends. Planting trees can be somewhat challenging, but the right tools will help make the process go smoothly.

Things You'll Need

  • Trees
  • Shovel
  • Large water container
  • Tractor
  • Garden tiller
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Instructions

    • 1
      A farm is an ideal location for viewing wildlife.

      Survey the property to find the best place to plant the trees. This is an important step toward attracting wildlife to watch later. It should be far enough away from houses and people that the animals won't be afraid to come around.

    • 2
      Choose trees that will draw wildlife.

      Choose the trees to plant, based on the climate and the types of wildlife you hope to attract. Deer love acorns, apples, pears and a number of other tree-borne foods. These types of trees will provide plenty of food. Local nurseries are a valuable source of information on what is best for the climate where you live.

    • 3
      Clear the area where you want to plant food-bearing trees to attract wildlife.

      Clear the area of debris, such as weeds and bushes, where you want to plant the trees. Remove any undesirable trees that may already be in the area. Use a tractor to pull up the unwanted trees and stumps. This ensures the trees you plant will have room to grow to their normal size and width.

    • 4
      Properly planted trees will produce good fruit for wildlife.

      Dig a saucer-shaped hole and then till the hole (using the garden tiller) until it is about five times the diameter of the tree's root ball. The hole should be two to three times as wide as the root ball and 10 to 12 inches deep. Be sure to measure the root ball to dig the correct sized hole.

    • 5
      Cut wire and burlap that may be holding the root ball.

      Place the tree in the hole and cut the twine or burlap that holds the root ball. If burlap is around the root ball, cut the burlap and fold it back. Completely remove any plastic wrap.

    • 6
      The new trees will need plenty of water to get started.

      Water the new trees immediately after planting. Water the trees during the summer for the next several years to help the trees survive through the heat and drought. Be sure to water sufficiently to reach deep into the roots.