Hummingbirds are one of nature’s most enchanting creatures. Their vibrant colours, rapid wing beats, and iridescent feathers make them a joy to watch in any garden. But did you know that you can attract these tiny wonders to your backyard with the right selection of flowers?
In this article, we’ll explore the best flowers that attract hummingbirds, how to plant and care for them, and tips for creating a hummingbird-friendly garden. Let’s dive in!
Why Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden?
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden offers several benefits. Not only do they add a splash of colour and movement, but they also play a crucial role in pollination. Hummingbirds help to pollinate flowers as they feed on nectar, transferring pollen from one bloom to another. This helps to ensure the health and vitality of your garden and the local ecosystem. Choosing the right hummingbird flowers can greatly affect how many of these delightful birds visit your garden.
Understanding Hummingbird Preferences
To successfully attract hummingbirds, it’s essential to understand their preferences. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to bright colours, especially red, orange, and pink. They also favour tubular-shaped flowers, which are easier for their long beaks to access. Additionally, flowers with high nectar content must keep these little birds returning for more. Selecting flowers hummingbirds like ensures your garden will be a frequent stop for them.
Top Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The trumpet vine is a vigorous climber with stunning trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of orange and red. It’s a favourite among hummingbirds and provides abundant nectar. Ensure it has plenty of space to grow and support its climbing nature with trellises or arbours. This is one of the most reliable flowers for hummingbirds.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm is a perennial that produces clusters of tubular flowers in various colours, including red, pink, and purple. It’s a magnet for hummingbirds and attracts bees and butterflies. Plant bee balm in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. It’s a perfect example of flowers to attract hummingbirds.
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvia, also known as sage, comes in many varieties, all popular with hummingbirds. These plants have long-lasting blooms and are relatively easy to care for. Plant them in full sun and provide moderate water. Salvia is a must-have in any garden with plants for hummingbirds.
Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia)
Red hot poker plants feature striking, torch-like flower spikes that range from red to yellow. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Their dramatic appearance and high nectar content make them irresistible to hummingbirds. Including red hot poker in your garden will increase the diversity of flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
The Cardinal flower is a native wildflower with vivid red blossoms. It prefers moist, rich soil and partial shade. Due to its bright colour and tubular shape, the cardinal flower is particularly attractive to hummingbirds. It’s one of the best plants that naturally attracts hummingbirds.
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Coral honeysuckle is a climbing vine with clusters of tubular, coral-coloured flowers. It’s a great choice for arbours or fences. Hummingbirds love the nectar-rich blooms, and the plant is relatively low-maintenance. Adding coral honeysuckle will ensure you have plenty of flowers to attract hummingbirds.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)
Butterfly bush produces large, fragrant flower clusters in purple, pink, and white shades. It’s a hardy plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. While it attracts butterflies, hummingbirds are also frequent visitors. This makes it one of the most versatile plants for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)
Fuchsia plants have drooping, bell-shaped flowers perfect for hanging baskets and shaded garden spots. They come in various colours, and their nectar-rich blooms are a favourite of hummingbirds. Fuchsia is one of the most visually appealing flowers for hummingbirds.
Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are annual flowers that bloom throughout the summer in a rainbow of colours. They are easy to grow and care for, making them an excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds. Zinnias are a staple in any collection of flowers to attract hummingbirds.
Petunia (Petunia spp.)
Petunias are versatile annuals planted in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets. They come in many colours, including the reds and pinks that hummingbirds love. Ensure they get plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Petunias are reliable flowers that attract hummingbirds.
How to Create a Hummingbird-Friendly Garden
Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden involves more than just planting the right flowers. Here are some additional tips:
- Garden Layout and Design: Arrange plants in clusters to make it easier for hummingbirds to find and feed on multiple flowers simultaneously. This enhances the effectiveness of your flowers for hummingbirds.
- Water Sources: Provide shallow water sources, like bird baths or misters, to give hummingbirds a place to drink and bathe.
- Feeders: Supplement natural nectar sources with hummingbird feeders filled with homemade nectar (1 part sugar to 4 parts water, no red dye). These feeders can complement your plants for hummingbirds.
Maintaining Your Hummingbird Garden
To keep your hummingbird garden thriving, follow these maintenance tips:
- Seasonal Care: Deadhead flowers to encourage new blooms and prune plants as needed to maintain shape and health. This is crucial for keeping your flowers to attract hummingbirds productive.
- Pest Control: Use natural pest control methods to avoid harming hummingbirds. Avoid pesticides that can contaminate nectar sources.
- Regular Watering: Ensure plants receive adequate water, especially during dry spells.
Conclusion
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden is a delightful and rewarding endeavour. By choosing the right flowers and creating a welcoming environment, you can enjoy the presence of these enchanting birds throughout the growing season. So, why wait? Start planning your hummingbird garden today and experience the joy of these vibrant visitors.
FAQs
What time of year do hummingbirds visit gardens?
Hummingbirds typically visit gardens from spring through fall, depending on the region. In warmer climates, they may be present year-round.
How can I make homemade hummingbird nectar?
Mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water to make homemade nectar. Boil the mixture to dissolve the sugar, then let it cool before filling your feeders. Avoid using red dye or honey.
Do hummingbirds like native plants better than exotic ones?
Hummingbirds are attracted to native and exotic plants. Still, native plants are often better adapted to local conditions and provide more reliable food sources.
How can I keep ants away from my hummingbird feeders?
Use ant moats or barriers on your feeders to prevent ants from reaching the nectar. Keeping the feeders clean and placing them away from plants can also help.
What other wildlife will be attracted to my hummingbird garden?
Your garden may attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Some flowers may also attract other birds and beneficial insects.
