Hummingbirds are some of nature's most interesting creatures. Is it any wonder people like to stop and look at them? With their blinding fast wing speed, pretty plumage, and odd flight patterns, it’s better than watching the nature channel. So how can you attract hummingbirds to your garden? Just take a look at this article to find out.
“Quick as a hummingbird...she darts so eagerly, swiftly, sweetly dipping into the flowers of my heart.” - James Oppenheim
Where Do You Hang a Hummingbird Feeder?
Where is the best place to put a hummingbird feeder? Unlike the vast majority of birds, hummingbirds will not use trees, birdhouses, or nesting boxes.
Instead…
They build their homes in shrubs. Ideally, you would want to place the feeder far enough away from the nesting shrubs that it attracts the birds, but also far enough away from any windows that they won’t hit the glass. Also be sure to have multiple feeders for the hummingbirds.
Pro tip:
Yes, as sweet as they seem, hummingbird bullies exist. They prey on smaller birds if everyone is centered around a single feeder. However, the simple act of acquiring more than one feeder will solve this. Multiple feeders attract multiple birds. Because there will be many birds to fight back against the bully, the aggressive bird will simply give up.
What Flowers are Hummingbirds Attracted to?
The best backyards for hummingbirds are wide open spaces with lots of shade. However, most hummingbird flowers grow in full sun. To create a more hummingbird-friendly yard, consider having the following features in your yard:
- Orange ribbon
- Tubed, brightly colored, scentless, flowers
- Brightly painted plastic flowers
- Water source
- Snag perches
- Flowers shaped to accommodate long beaks
- One quarter full shade
- One quarter partial shade
- Half full sunlight
- Hummingbird feeders
- Add new plants every now and then
- Spiders (no, really)
What Specific Flowers are Hummingbirds Attracted To?
So you have the general idea down, but are looking to be more specific. There are a few plants and vines that you can have that hummingbirds seem to favor in general. While the key is to include as much variation of plant life as possible in a wide open space, here are some suggestions if hummingbirds don’t seem interested:
- Buddleia
- Cape Honeysuckle
- Coral Honeysuckle
- Cypress Vine
- Flame Acanthus
- Flowering Quince
- Lantana
- Manzanita
- Mimosa
- Morning Glory
- Red Buckeye
- Scarlet Runner Bean
- Tree Tobacco
- Trumpet Creeper
- Turk's Cap
- Weigela
Why Won't Hummingbirds Come to My Feeder?
Sometimes it’s as simple as changing up the formula. While it is certainly possible to buy hummingbird feed, you can just as easily make it. A bare bones hummingbird nectar mix can be as simple as:
- 1 part sugar
- 4 parts water
- Boil 1 to 2 minutes
- Cool and store in refrigerator
Pro tip:
Hummingbirds aren’t particular about perennials or annuals, they just want brightly colored, different, tubular flowers. As long as you supply those and shrubs to live in, hummingbirds will love your garden. Spiderwebs also attract hummingbirds as well.
Will Hummingbirds Come Back Next Year?
Hummingbirds are creatures of habit. If you set up your garden last year, they’ll certainly return to it the next year.
How long does it take for hummingbirds to come to feeders?
It usually depends on how early you set up your garden again. Set it up early, otherwise hummingbirds will generally go back the the places they were familiar with.
Any gardening or hummingbird tips you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more great tips and inspiration!
Continue Reading:
- 5 Ways to Build Bird Baths with Everyday Items
- How to Make a DIY Butterfly Feeder
- Luxury Landscape Features: Pergolas, Gazebos, and Arbors