
31 May Five Tips to Make Your Garden Hummingbird Friendly this Summer.
With their mesmerizing aerial acrobatics and vibrant colors, these tiny wonders are a delightful visitor to any garden. We’ve got five tips that will make your garden a hummingbird haven. So grab your gardening gloves and let’s get started!
1. Plant Native Flowers: Hummingbirds love native plants, so make sure to include a variety in your garden. There are a plethora of options such as perennial Lobelia, bee balm, and Beardtongue. These vibrant blooms will not only attract hummingbirds but also add a burst of color to your outdoor oasis. When planting flowers for hummingbirds it’s always good to look for blooms that are easy for the hummingbird to get their beak in and out of.
2. Provide a Water Source: Hummingbirds need water for both drinking and bathing, so set up a shallow birdbath or a small fountain in your garden. Make sure to keep it clean and change the water regularly to prevent any mosquito breeding.
3. Hang a Feeder: Supplement the natural nectar sources by hanging a hummingbird feeder in your garden. Fill it with a homemade nectar solution of four parts water and one part white granulated sugar. You can also use premixed nectar. The added benefits of these is they will have added vitamins and nutrients. Remember to clean the feeder every few days to keep it hygienic for our feathered friends. Check out our post on how to make your own hummingbird feeder here. (link when available).
4. Create Shelter: Hummingbirds need safe spots to rest and protect themselves from predators. Plant shrubs and trees that offer both perching spots and shelter. You can also add a few hummingbird-friendly vines like clematis or honeysuckle vine (also a great flower to attract hummingbirds) to provide additional hiding places. This not only can help the little hummers, but can help keep the nectar cool for them and help prevent it from spoiling.
5. Go Pesticide-Free: Avoid using harmful pesticides in your garden as they can be toxic to hummingbirds and other beneficial insects. Embrace natural pest control methods like companion planting, attracting insect-eating birds, or using organic insecticides if necessary. After all, hummingbirds also feed on insects, like flies and gnats, to get protein in their diet.
