If you want to attract birds to your garden, there's a simple method you can try. Placing a common kitchen item outdoors can help, as it should ensure they stop by regularlyKatie-Ann Gupwell13:43, 30 Jun 2026Updated 13:43, 30 Jun 2026Many people love the idea of birds flocking to their gardens, and there's a key thing you can use to draw them in. You may not realise, but you don't actually need food to entice them, as something else entirely can do the job.‌In fact, it's pretty vital that you place it in your garden in July if you want to look after your feathered visitors, as it can help birds survive while also encouraging them to stop by. A woman known as The Floral Gardener on TikTok previously shared this brilliant hack, and it can make a real difference to the number of birds that regularly pop into your outdoor space.‌It's not the first tip of its kind to make the rounds, either. Previous guidance has been shared on how to attract another popular bird to your garden.‌The Floral Gardener revealed that seeds and food aren't actually necessary to bring them in. Instead, she pointed to something far more straightforward.It's also something most of us already have at home in the kitchen. Simply place it outside in a shallow dish.How to attract birdsIn a video posted online, she revealed: "Want birds in your garden? Forget the seed. This works better and it's free.‌"It's frustrating when you're making so much effort and putting out food for them, and putting bird boxes up and they're still not coming."This is what works. Water. Give birds multiple water sources and they will flock to your gardens."In my front garden, I feed the birds but, in the back garden, I only offer water, and guess what? There are tons of birds every single day in my back garden."‌Content cannot be displayed without consentThe Floral Gardener revealed she has three water features and a pond, but bowls of water or plant pots filled with water are equally effective if you're after a budget-friendly option. Birds will be perfectly content with any vessel that holds water.Beyond simply drinking it, they'll also use it to bathe, giving them plenty of reasons to pay a visit. Give it a go, and she reckons you'll probably be "absolutely amazed" by the results.‌Why is it important in July?You may not realise it, but leaving out fresh water in July is essential for birds to drink and stay clean. July heatwaves take their toll on birds, as they do not sweat and rely on water to cool down and rehydrate.Store the water in a shaded spot to keep it cool, and position it near cover, such as a tree canopy or bushes, so birds can make a swift escape from predators if needed.It's important to change the water daily using standard tap water to prevent the spread of disease and stop mosquitoes from breeding. Give your birdbath a thorough clean weekly with a stiff brush and mild detergent.Article continues belowThe water should also be shallow — around 2.5cm to 5cm deep. If your container is slippery, pop in a few rough stones or a handful of pebbles so smaller birds and insects can easily clamber out should they fall in.While you can still put food out for birds if you wish, water alone will draw them in. However, it's best to avoid offering bread, as it lacks the nutrients they require.