There's nothing more frustrating than settling onto your beautiful new garden bench only to find it covered in bird droppings. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also damage the finish. The good news is you can protect your furniture humanely and effectively. Here are several proven strategies.
Start with physical barriers. Install transparent, removable plastic covers when the benches are not in use. For a more permanent solution, consider specially designed commercial bird spikes. These are not sharp or harmful but create an uneven surface that discourages perching. Lightweight bird netting draped and secured above the benches can also be highly effective.
Next, employ visual and auditory deterrents. Birds are startled by sudden movement and reflective surfaces. Hang old CDs, reflective tape, or commercial scare tape nearby. Silvery wind chimes or pinwheels add motion and noise. For persistent problems, ultrasonic bird repellents emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to birds but inaudible to humans.
Use natural repellents. Birds dislike certain smells. Sprinkle food-grade cinnamon or chili powder around the bench (reapply after rain). You can also plant natural deterrents like marigolds or peppermint in nearby pots. Crucially, remove all food sources. Ensure bird feeders are placed far away from your seating area and keep the garden free of fallen fruit or berries.
Consistency is key. Birds are intelligent and will habituate to a single method. Rotate between two or three different tactics every few weeks for the best results. With a little patience and a combination of these humane methods, you can reclaim your clean and inviting garden sanctuary.