31 Jul It’s Hummingbird Season in Carol Stream!

If you’ve caught a flash of iridescent green zipping past your garden or heard the soft buzz of tiny wings, you’re not imagining things—hummingbird season is here in Carol Stream!

From late spring through early fall, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds make their annual appearance in our area, darting between blooms and feeders in search of nectar. These tiny birds are a joy to watch, and with a few simple steps, you can turn your yard into a hummingbird haven.

What Attracts Hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds are always on the lookout for two things: nectar-rich flowers and safe, sheltered spots to rest. Here’s what they love:

Colorful, Tubular Blooms

Hummingbirds are drawn to bright red, orange, and pink flowers with tubular shapes that hold nectar. Planting native flowering perennials is one of the best ways to keep them coming back.

Top picks to plant from Barn Owl:

• Bee Balm (Monarda) – A hummingbird favorite that adds color and fragrance.
• Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) – Stunning red blooms they can’t resist.
• Columbine (Aquilegia) – Early bloomers with intricate flowers.
• Salvia (Salvia spp.) – Long-blooming and nectar-rich.
• Coral Bells (Heuchera) – Delicate, bell-shaped flowers with bonus foliage appeal.
• Honeysuckle Vine (Lonicera) – Ideal for arbors and fences, this twining vine is a hummingbird magnet!
• Hibiscus & Dipladenia (in hanging baskets!) – Tropical flair and nonstop blooms that hummingbirds love.

How to Make Hummingbird Nectar at Home

You don’t need to buy pre-made nectar to attract hummingbirds—making it at home is simple, safe, and dye-free.

Homemade Nectar Recipe:

• 1 part white granulated sugar
• 4 parts water

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
3. Let it cool completely before filling your feeder.
4. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

⚠️ Never use honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners—these can harm hummingbirds.

Create a Hummingbird-Friendly Space

Besides feeding, hummingbirds also need:

• Trees or shrubs for resting and nesting
• Misters or shallow birdbaths for quick drinks and bathing
• Pesticide-free environments to protect insects—an important protein source

The more diverse your landscape, the more likely you are to see hummingbirds zipping around your garden.

Need Supplies? We’ve Got You Covered.

At Barn Owl Garden Center, we carry everything you need to support your local hummingbirds:

• Feeders (classic and decorative!)
• Organic nectar supplies
• Native flowering plants
• Hanging baskets and pollinator combos
• Helpful tips from our staff for planting and placement

Don’t forget to swing by The Market while you’re here and treat yourself to a Feathered Saddle coffee—it’s the perfect pairing for a stroll through the garden.

Let’s make this hummingbird season a colorful one!
Follow us on Instagram for plant arrivals and garden tips, and tag us in your hummingbird photos—we love to see what’s buzzing in your backyard.