According to garden experts, there are plenty of ways to observe and appreciate birds this winter with the right set-up. For small garden birds such as goldfinches and robins, colder seasons are a crucial time to find food and maintain energy.
Nic Wilson, a Guardian Country Diarist and author, says there are three garden plants that goldfinches are particularly attracted to.
Writing in the latest edition of BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, she shared: “A good pair of binoculars can help you pick out the details of a bird’s plumage, especially when watching from indoors. The magnification makes it easier to distinguish blue tits from great tits and dunnocks from house sparrows.
“Or, if you’ve got seed heads in your borders, you might get the chance to study the spectacular red neck and white patterning on a goldfinch’s head. In my garden, they go for the seeds of Verbena bonariensis, Russian sage, and lavender.”
Verbena bonariensis
Verbena bonariensis (also known as tall verbena or purpletop vervain) is a flowering perennial plant often grown in gardens. It’s known for its tall, airy structure and long-lasting bloom.
Goldfinches are primarily seed-eaters that are drawn to Verbena bonariensis for several reasons. The plant produces lots of small, nutritious seeds late in summer and into autumn, perfect for a goldfinch’s beak.
Small birds, like these, are fond of nyjer (niger) seeds, sunflower hearts, teasels, and other small, oil-rich seeds.
With Verbena bonariensis, its seeds sit loosely on tall, open clusters, giving birds a better chance of clinging and feeding without having to pull seeds free.
Praised for its reliability by Gardeners’ World’s Monty Don, Verbena bonariensis continues producing seeds when food elsewhere is scarcer.
Its tall, airy structure also allows goldfinches to feed safely while keeping alert for predators.
Lavender
According to A Little Bird Company, goldfinches are drawn to aromatic plants like lavender, as their natural oils help repel parasites and insects – something that can make nests safer for their young.
They also appreciate lavender’s seeds, which are small, accessible, and available late in the season. However, they are mainly a supplementary food rather than a high-energy staple.
The plant’s airy stems additionally provide good visibility so that they can be more aware of surroundings.
Russian Sage
Russian sage (Perovskia/Salvia yangii) is a perennial plant with silvery-gray foliage and spikes of small lavender-blue flowers.
Birds, such as goldfinches, are sometimes attracted to it for its seeds and structure.
The plant produces small seeds after flowering, which birds can nibble on easily.
Like lavender and Verbena bonariensis, Russian sage also has tall, airy stems that allow goldfinches to perch and feed safely.
Its seeds remain available into late summer and autumn when other sources are scarce.
In addition to plant-based food, goldfinches are particularly drawn to high-fat seeds in feeders.
Bird expert Tom Ferris explains: “Goldfinches love nyjer seeds and sunflower hearts, which provide the high-fat energy they need in colder conditions.”
Speaking to Express.co.uk, he added: “Placing a dedicated nyjer feeder in a sheltered, quiet spot can make a noticeable difference.”
Gardening guru Monty agrees, noting that nyjer are one of the much loved types of seeds by goldfinches, house sparrows, siskins, and tits.
To grab their attention, he advises sprinkling the seeds onto a log, which allows small birds to reach them, or using a feeder specifically designed for tiny seeds.
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