Gardens can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. A bird-friendly garden explores the nature of both those worlds.

Penn State Extension Master Gardener Colleen Emmerling will provide instruction and tips for creating a bird-friendly garden during her upcoming informational presentation.

"Everyone can learn about better plant choices that make a positive local impact," said Emmerling. "People might already place water or birdseed in their space to attract birds, even bird boxes for nesting. But in a bird-friendly garden there are plants, shrubs and trees that support high-protein insects, especially caterpillars, which in turn supports most birds during breeding season. Water and food are the primary attractors for resident and migratory birds, with shelter being very important for resident birds."

Emmerling will present her talk on bird-friendly gardens at 6 p.m. on Monday, June 22, at the Ephrata Public Library, 550 S. Reading Road, Ephrata. The speech is free to attend and open to the public, but this particular presentation is geared toward adults over the age of 18.

"It'll be an informative experience for every level of garden enthusiast," said Emmerling, a resident of Conestoga. "Simple actions on our part can help birds thrive through habitat improvement via native plant choices and less use of pesticides. Wise native plant choices are foundational and can slow down insect decline and improve bird populations."

Emmerling's presentation on creating a bird-friendly garden will last about an hour and will conclude with a question-and-answer session. Her talk will be guided by a PowerPoint presentation and informational handouts.

"I enjoy a conversational style when presenting," said Emmerling, "and I enjoy meeting new people."

A member of the speakers' bureau of the Lancaster County Master Gardeners, Emmerling presents about three similar talks each year, including ones on composting, terrariums and ponds in a pot. Volunteer speakers like Emmerling address garden clubs, herb clubs, community organizations, historical societies, senior living communities, businesses and libraries.

The Ephrata Public Library will host a Master Gardener "Succulents" presentation at 6 p.m. on Monday, July 27, and a "Creating Year-Round Interest With Native Plants" talk at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

"I enjoy the variety you see in nature; seasonal changes amaze me," said Emmerling. "I am still working and learning to get that elusive expert designation."

Emmerling earned the distinction of Master Gardener in 2020, after finishing coursework and the volunteer time required by the Penn State Extension.

"Penn State Extension Master Gardeners are volunteers who have an interest and enthusiasm for gardening and are trained in a broad range of horticultural topics," Emmerling said.

For additional information, go to http://www.ephratapubliclibrary.org.