Invite Frogs and Toads into the Garden

Celebrate National Frog Month by inviting insect and slug-eating toads and frogs into your garden.

Start by providing water. A pond at least 20 inches deep with gently sloping sides will work. Include water plants that provide oxygen, shelter from predators and weather and breeding sites.

Include a few rocks or logs in the pond for basking and a few alongside the water for shelter.

Build a rock pile in the garden. Select a location that receives sun and shade each day. Position the rock pile in more sun if your summers are cool and more shade if your summers are hot.

Line the bottom with stones for added protection from winter cold and leave cavities between some of the bottom rocks for nesting, shelter and hibernation. Use a pipe 1 to 2 inches in diameter and less than 2 feet to create an entryway.

A bit more information: Look, but do not touch the frogs and toads you attract to your landscape. Bug repellent, lotions and oils on your skin can harm these creatures. For more information see Oregon State University Extension’s publication Attract Reptiles and Amphibians to Your Yard.