Attracting Hummingbirds: The Ultimate Guide to Plants That Hummingbirds Love

The Importance of Plants for Hummingbirds

If you're an avid bird watcher or just enjoy the beauty and grace of these tiny birds, then you'll want to know the best ways to attract them to your garden. One of the easiest and most effective ways is by planting the right type of flowers and plants that they love!

Hummingbirds are known for their incredible speed, agility, and energy, which allows them to fly at amazing speeds and hover in place while they feed. These birds need to eat frequently, so having a garden full of nectar-rich flowers and plants can be a lifesaver for them. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best plants for hummingbirds, as well as some tips for creating a garden that will keep them coming back year after year.

The Best Plants for Hummingbirds

There are many different types of plants that hummingbirds love, but here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)

This plant is a favorite among hummingbirds because of its bright orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from early summer through fall. The trumpet vine is a fast-growing and hardy plant that can grow up to 30 feet long, making it ideal for covering fences, walls, and trellises.

Planting Tips:

- Plant trumpet vines where they can climb and spread out, such as along a fence or wall.
- Provide support for the vine to climb, such as a trellis or sturdy wire.
- Ensure that the soil is well-draining but moist.

2. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

This plant is also known as Oswego tea, and it produces stunning clusters of red, pink, or purple flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Bee balm blooms from mid-summer to early fall and is an easy plant to grow in most gardens.

Planting Tips:

- Plant bee balm in full sun or partial shade.
- Ensure that the soil is well-draining but moist.
- Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.

3. Salvia (Salvia spp.)

Salvias are a group of plants that come in many different sizes, shapes, and colors. They are a great source of nectar for hummingbirds and can bloom from spring to fall, depending on the variety.

Planting Tips:

- Plant salvias in full sun or partial shade.
- Ensure that the soil is well-draining but moist.
- Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.

4. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

The cardinal flower is a favorite among hummingbirds because of its bright red tubular flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. It's a great way to add some color to your garden and attract these tiny birds at the same time.

Planting Tips:

- Plant cardinal flowers in full sun or partial shade.
- Ensure that the soil is consistently moist.
- Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

5. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)

Butterfly bushes are a popular choice for attracting many types of pollinators, including hummingbirds. They produce long spikes of fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white that bloom from mid-summer to fall.

Planting Tips:

- Plant butterfly bushes in full sun.
- Ensure that the soil is well-draining but moist.
- Prune regularly to encourage more blooms.

Tips for Creating a Hummingbird Garden

Now that you know some of the best plants for hummingbirds, here are some tips for creating a garden that will keep them coming back:

1. Provide Shelter

Hummingbirds need a place to rest and hide from predators, so make sure to include some shrubs, trees, or other plants that provide shelter and cover.

2. Offer Multiple Feeding Stations

Hummingbirds can be territorial, especially during feeding time, so it's a good idea to offer multiple feeding stations throughout your garden.

3. Use Bright Colors

Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red, orange, and pink. Incorporate these colors into your garden by using flowers, pots, and other decorative elements.

4. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides can be harmful to hummingbirds and other pollinators, so try to avoid using them in your garden. Instead, use natural methods like companion planting and handpicking pests.

5. Keep Your Garden Clean

Hummingbirds are attracted to clean and well-maintained gardens, so make sure to keep yours tidy and free of debris.

Frequently Asked Questions about Plants for Hummingbirds

Q: How do I attract hummingbirds to my garden?

A: The best way to attract hummingbirds is by planting nectar-rich flowers and plants that they love, as well as providing shelter and multiple feeding stations.

Q: What colors are hummingbirds attracted to?

A: Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red, orange, and pink.

Q: How often do hummingbirds need to eat?

A: Hummingbirds need to eat frequently, usually every 10-15 minutes during the day.

Q: Can I feed hummingbirds sugar water?

A: Yes, you can make your own hummingbird food by mixing 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Avoid using honey or artificial sweeteners.

Q: What plants should I avoid planting if I want to attract hummingbirds?

A: Some plants may be toxic or harmful to hummingbirds, so it's best to avoid them. These include azaleas, lilies, daffodils, and foxgloves.