Bird Friendly Comox Demonstration Garden
Abstract
As part of Bird Friendly Comox’s application for Bird Friendly City certification with Nature Canada, this native plant demonstration garden was designed to provide habitat for the insects that birds rely on. The 23 m2 garden is located in downtown Comox at the north end of British Columbia’s historic Garry Oak meadows in full sun, surrounded by asphalt, isolated from any remaining Garry oak meadows, and exposed to deer pressure. This challenging location was intentional because it represents conditions that are common throughout Comox; however it presented limitations when selecting suitable plants and seeds. A total of 23 species were selected, with 203 perennials planted as pots/plugs and 3576 seeds, primarily annuals. Perennials were planted in the fall of 2024 followed by overseeding with the annuals. In a survival survey conducted June 2025, the pots and plugs had 84% survival and continued to thrive into July 2025. However, the seeds had just 5% germination, many of which were lost to drought by mid July. I consider whether seeding is an appropriate option on this exposed sight with high risk of seed predation over winter by birds followed by germinant desiccation over the spring and summer. Ongoing stewardship will include trialing new species capable of tolerating drought, full sun and deer pressure while prioritizing insect habitat over traditional urban garden aesthetics. Some negative public feedback about the garden’s more natural appearance may be expected and I look forward to working with the Town of Comox to use this as an education opportunity.
