Basics of Gardening
How to Attract Hummingbirds: Make Your Garden Irresistible!
If you’ve ever wondered how to attract hummingbirds to your backyard or garden, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to create a hummingbird paradise right in your own outdoor space.
Why Attract Hummingbirds, Anyway?
They’re Great Pollinators
Firstly, hummingbirds are the good guys of the garden world. They’re like the charming guests that everyone wants to invite to a garden party. These winged wonders are known to be great pollinators, which helps your flowers to bloom and multiply. No bees or butterflies? No worries! Hummingbirds can pick up the slack.
They’re Natural Pest Controllers
You’ll also be thrilled to hear that hummingbirds help control pests in your yard. While their main diet consists of nectar, they also snack on pesky insects. That’s right, they’re like little organic pest controllers. So, inviting them over is like hiring a gardener and a pest control service rolled into one!
Don’t overlook the importance of pollinators in your garden.
Setting the Table: What to Feed Hummingbirds
Sugar Water: The DIY Nectar
If you want to know how to attract hummingbirds, the first step is setting up a feeder filled with sugar water. Mix one part sugar with four parts water, boil it to kill any bacteria, and let it cool. There’s no need for red dye; in fact, it can be harmful to the birds.
- Unique Gifts – Best choices as gift for your parents, friends, neighbors and loved ones. Bird watching gifts for people who love birds and gardening. Gifts for Anniversary, Birthday, Valentine’s Day,…
Natural Flowers: 10 Perennials That Attract Hummingbirds
Adding some lovely blooms to your garden not only elevates its beauty but is also a strategic move in the “how to attract hummingbirds” game plan. Trust me, these perennial flowers are like the all-you-can-eat buffets for our tiny, winged friends.
So, let’s look at 10 perennials that will make your garden a hummingbird haven.
1. Bee Balm (Monarda)
Also known as Oswego tea, bee balm is a hit in the hummingbird world. Its tubular, red, pink, or purple flowers make it a sought-after pitstop for these nectar-loving birds. I planted some last year, and it was like ringing the dinner bell for hummingbirds!
2. Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Whether it’s the red, purple, or blue varieties, salvia is a hummingbird favorite. It’s easy to care for, making it a win-win for everyone.
3. Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans)
This plant gets its name from its trumpet-shaped flowers, which come in shades of bright orange or red. Once, a hummingbird almost collided with me to get to the creeper. I guess it’s that good!
4. Lupine (Lupinus)
With its tall spires of colorful flowers, lupine is not just eye-candy for humans. Hummingbirds love it too. I find that the more vibrant the color, the more hummingbirds it seems to attract.
5. Foxglove (Digitalis)
This towering beauty, often seen in fairytales, is also a hummingbird favorite. Just be careful if you have pets or small children; all parts of the foxglove plant are toxic if ingested.
6. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria)
Want to add some drama to your garden while attracting hummingbirds? Red hot poker is your plant. Its striking, torch-like flowers are like a siren call for these tiny aviators.
7. Hummingbird Sage (Salvia spathacea)
The name says it all! This particular sage species is perfect for the hummingbird garden. The rich, red tubular flowers are pretty much a hummingbird magnet.
8. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Red is the color that really attracts hummingbirds and the cardinal flower is the crown jewel. Its intense, scarlet flowers scream, “Hey hummingbirds, over here!”
9. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow might be more commonly associated with attracting butterflies, but guess what? Hummingbirds love them too. The clustered tiny flowers make it easy for them to feed.
10. Columbine (Aquilegia)
Last but not least, columbine is a flower that not only attracts hummingbirds but is also a beautiful addition to any garden. Its unique, bell-like shape and bright colors are a big hit with these winged wonders.
So there you have it, 10 perennial plants that are basically like VIP tickets to the hummingbird party you’re throwing in your garden. Plant these, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering how to attract hummingbirds. Be sure and check out our full list of plants that attract pollinators for more varieties.
The Hummingbird Spa: Water Features
Alright, let’s chat about the hummingbird spa experience, shall we? We’ve covered the buffet, nectar feeders and plants, but what about the amenities? Just like us, hummingbirds love a good spa day. They need fresh, clean water for drinking and bathing, and they’re especially fond of flying through misty sprays. Here’s how you can give them the five-star treatment they deserve.
The Classic Birdbath: Less is More
You might think you need something fancy to impress these birds, but a simple birdbath often does the trick. The key is to keep the water shallow, about an inch deep, so they can comfortably perch on the edge and splash around. Trust me, watching them take a dip is worth every penny you spend on that birdbath.
- ★EASY TO USE – NO battery required, no electrical wires! Just ADD Sunlight and Water! It can be easily moved from place to place throughout the day to capture the sunlight.
Cleaning is Caring
Don’t forget to keep that birdbath clean! A grimy bath is not only a turn-off for hummingbirds but can also harbor harmful bacteria. So, give it a good scrub every few days. You wouldn’t want to take a dip in a dirty hot tub, and neither do they.
Upgrade to a Hummingbird Mister: The Luxe Experience
If you’re willing to go the extra mile (and trust me, it’s totally worth it), consider installing a hummingbird mister. Unlike a birdbath where they perch and bathe, a mister creates a fine spray that they love to fly through. It’s like their version of a rainforest shower. I hooked one up last summer, and it became the ultimate hummingbird attraction. They just couldn’t get enough of it!
- 【Effective Cooling & Portable】POCKET PANDA portable mister for outdoors can cools the surrounding area up to 20 degrees. Suitable for patio, BBQ, pool, pet, kids, outdoor water playing, etc.
DIY Options: When Budget Meets Creativity
No need to break the bank; you can DIY a hummingbird mister with a hose, a mister nozzle, and some zip ties. Just attach the nozzle to the hose and secure it to a tree branch or pole where it can mist over a flower bed or shrub. Voila! You’ve got yourself a homemade hummingbird spa. I went the DIY route before upgrading, and it was a hit.
Fountain Fun: For the Connoisseur Hummingbirds
Lastly, if you’re really looking to jazz up your outdoor space and attract hummingbirds, consider a water fountain with a gentle, cascading flow. Just remember to keep the water fresh and the fountain clean. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your feathered guests happy.
Upgrading your water features isn’t just a move to beautify your garden, it’s a crucial step if you’re serious about learning how to attract hummingbirds. A good bath and misting station will make your yard the go-to spot for these winged jewels, giving you endless hours of birdwatching bliss.
Where to Place Hummingbird Feeders and Plants
Okay, so you’ve got the grub and the spa amenities sorted. But, where should you put them? Turns out, even hummingbirds, like us humans, have a thing for prime real estate. Here’s some pollinator garden design ideas to help you hit the sweet spot when placing your feeders and plants.
The High Life: Elevate Those Feeders
First things first, hummingbirds don’t like to dine and dash. They prefer a safe, elevated space where they can sip nectar without worrying about predators. Aim to hang your feeders about 4 to 5 feet off the ground. This not only makes it hard for critters like cats to reach them but also gives you a better vantage point for watching these avian acrobats.
Visibility Matters
Your feeders shouldn’t be a hidden treasure; they need to be easily seen by passing hummingbirds. Hanging them near colorful flowers can help attract their attention. Think of it as putting up a neon sign that says, “Open for Business!”
I’ve got mine near a bunch of red salvia plants, and it’s like a hummingbird magnet!
The Safety of Natural Shelter
If you can, place your feeders and nectar-rich plants near trees or shrubs. These natural structures provide a great resting spot for hummingbirds between feeding sessions.
They’re like the comfy lounge chairs you’d find next to a resort pool. In my garden, I’ve noticed that after a good feed, they like to retreat to a nearby tree to chill out and digest.
Distance From Windows
Here’s something many people don’t consider: windows can be hazardous to birds. To minimize the risk of them flying into glass, position your feeders and plants at least 10 to 20 feet away from windows.
Sun vs Shade: Strike a Balance
Hummingbirds enjoy sunbathing, but they also need a place to cool down. If possible, arrange your garden so that there are both sunny and shady spots available. I’ve got a mix of sun-loving and shade-loving plants around my feeders, giving my feathered friends a choice depending on their mood.
Accessibility: Keep it Convenient
Finally, let’s talk about you, the birdwatcher. Place your feeders and plants in a location that’s convenient for you to maintain. If you have to trek to the back corner of your yard, you’re less likely to keep up with refilling and cleaning. I keep my feeders close to the patio door for quick and easy access.
When it comes to learning how to attract hummingbirds, the “where” is almost as important as the “what.” A strategically placed feeder and thoughtfully arranged garden can make a world of difference.
The Extra Mile: Fun Accessories to Consider
Hummingbird Swings: The VIP Lounge for Your Feathered Friends
Let’s talk about hummingbird swing. Yes, they’re a thing, and yes, they’re as adorable as they sound. These are basically mini-perches for hummingbirds to sit on and rest. Position them near your feeders so the little guys have a place to sit while they wait their turn or digest that last full belly of nectar.
- Wood and copper swing adds color and style to your bird garden
Besides giving hummingbirds a place to rest, swings offer an elevated vantage point that many birds seek out naturally. They can keep an eye on their territory, scan for predators, and survey the food situation all while looking incredibly cute.
Colored Ribbons: Adding Flair and Attraction to Your Garden
Imagine your garden fluttering with vibrant, colored ribbons—pretty enchanting, right? Ribbons can add visual interest to your outdoor space and make it more inviting for hummingbirds. These little birds are attracted to bright colors, especially reds and oranges, which in nature often signal a source of nectar.
Don’t dismiss ribbons as merely decorative; they serve a function too. They sway in the wind, catching light and creating movement, which is something hummingbirds are known to investigate. It’s a simple, affordable accessory, but it can make a noticeable difference when you’re figuring out how to attract hummingbirds.
Swings and ribbons might sound like extras, but they’re the little things that can turn your yard from a hummingbird fast-food stop into a five-star resort.
Keep ‘Em Coming Back: Maintenance and Upkeep
Okay, you’ve set up a hummingbird heaven, complete with feeders, flowers, and all those cute accessories. High five! But wait, your job isn’t done. To keep those flying jewels coming back, a little maintenance and upkeep go a long way.
Here’s what you should know about keeping your hummingbird setup in tip-top shape.
Keep it Clean: The Importance of Feeder Hygiene
First things first: clean those feeders! Unclean feeders can grow mold and bacteria, which are harmful to hummingbirds. A simple rinse with warm water and a scrubbing brush usually does the trick. Aim to do this at least once a week.
You might find it helpful to have a couple of feeders to rotate in and out, making the cleaning process less disruptive to your hummers.
Sugar and Spice Makes Everything Nice: Keep the Nectar Fresh
Hummingbirds are like little kids at a candy store when it comes to sugar water. They can’t get enough! But stale or fermented nectar can be harmful to them. During the hot summer months, change the nectar in your feeders every 2-3 days.
In cooler weather, you can stretch it to once a week. Freshness matters if you’re learning how to attract hummingbirds and keep them coming back.
Garden Grooming: Plant Care and Pruning
Plants need love too! Regular watering and pruning are essential for keeping your garden lush and appealing. Some perennials might require deadheading or cutting back to encourage more blooms. The more vibrant and healthy your plants are, the more they’ll attract hummingbirds.
Don’t Forget the Accessories: Maintenance Extras
Swings, ribbons, wind chimes need occasional attention as well. Wind and weather can take a toll, causing wear and tear. Make sure they’re securely fastened and in good condition.
The Seasonal Switch: Preparing for Migration
Depending on where you live, your hummingbirds might head south for the winter. But before they pack their tiny suitcases, they’ll be bulking up for the journey. This is when they need you most! Be aware of seasonal considerations for pollinators. Ensure feeders are consistently full and plants are in bloom for as long as possible.
Conclusion: Your Garden, Their Paradise
So, there you have it, folks! Learning how to attract hummingbirds isn’t just about hanging a feeder and hoping for the best. It’s about creating an inviting, sustainable environment that these incredible creatures will want to visit again and again.
Now, all that’s left is to sit back, sip your morning coffee, and enjoy the mesmerizing dance of hummingbirds in your very own backyard paradise. Trust me, it’s a sight you’ll never get tired of.
