Fall Flowers for Hummingbirds: Attracting These Beautiful Birds to Your Garden

Are you looking to attract hummingbirds to your garden this fall? If so, planting the right flowers can make all the difference. Hummingbirds need plenty of nectar to fuel their high-energy lifestyles, and fall is the perfect time to provide it. In this article, we'll explore some of the best flowers to plant in your garden to attract hummingbirds during the fall season.

The Importance of Fall Flowers for Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are unique creatures that require a lot of energy to sustain their fast-paced lives. They have incredibly high metabolisms and need to eat frequently to keep up with their energy needs. Fall is an especially important time for hummingbirds, as they are preparing for their long migration southward. Providing a good source of nectar during this time can help ensure that these beautiful birds have the energy they need to make the journey.

Best Fall Flowers for Hummingbirds

There are a number of different flowers that hummingbirds love, but not all of them are suitable for fall planting. Here are some of the best options:

1. Salvia

Salvia is a popular choice among hummingbird enthusiasts. This colorful flower comes in a variety of shades, including red, pink, and purple, and is known for its long bloom time. It also attracts a variety of pollinators, including butterflies and bees.

Care Tips:

Salvia prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It does not require a lot of water, so be careful not to overwater it.

2. Goldenrod

Goldenrod is a bright yellow flower that blooms in the late summer and early fall. It is an excellent source of nectar for hummingbirds, as well as other pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Tips:

Goldenrod prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil. It can be prone to spreading, so be sure to plant it in an area where it has plenty of room to grow.

3. Cardinal Flower

The cardinal flower is a stunning red flower that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. It blooms in late summer and early fall and can grow up to 4 feet tall.

Care Tips:

Cardinal flowers prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They can be prone to leaf spot disease, so be sure to provide good air circulation around the plant.

4. Bee Balm

Bee balm is a popular choice among gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds. This colorful flower comes in shades ranging from pink to red and blooms from mid-summer through early fall.

Care Tips:

Bee balm prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil. It can be prone to powdery mildew, so be sure to provide good air circulation around the plant.

5. Zinnia

Zinnias are a popular choice for fall gardens, and they also happen to be highly attractive to hummingbirds. This flower comes in a variety of bright colors and blooms from mid-summer through fall.

Care Tips:

Zinnias prefer full sun exposure and well-drained soil. They are relatively low-maintenance and do not require a lot of water.

Other Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

In addition to planting the right flowers, there are a few other things you can do to attract hummingbirds to your garden:

1. Provide a Water Source

Hummingbirds need water just as much as they need nectar. Providing a shallow bird bath or fountain can help attract these birds to your garden.

2. Offer Sugar Water

If you don't have enough flowers in your garden to provide adequate nectar, you can also offer sugar water to hummingbirds. Just mix one part white sugar with four parts water and place it in a hummingbird feeder.

3. Plant in Clumps

Planting flowers in clumps rather than scattering them throughout your garden can help attract more hummingbirds. This makes it easier for the birds to find the flowers and allows them to feed more efficiently.

4. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides can be harmful to hummingbirds and other pollinators. If possible, avoid using them in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I plant fall flowers for hummingbirds in containers?

Yes, you can plant fall flowers for hummingbirds in containers. Just be sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system and provides adequate drainage.

2. What if I live in an area where hummingbirds don't migrate?

Even if you live in an area where hummingbirds don't migrate, fall flowers can still provide a valuable food source for these birds. By planting the right flowers, you can help support the local hummingbird population year-round.

3. How often should I change the sugar water in my hummingbird feeder?

You should change the sugar water in your hummingbird feeder every 2-3 days, or more frequently if the weather is hot.

4. How can I tell if a flower is suitable for hummingbirds?

Look for flowers that are tubular or trumpet-shaped, as these are the easiest for hummingbirds to feed from. You can also check online resources or consult with a local gardening expert for recommendations.

5. Can I attract hummingbirds to my garden without planting flowers?

While flowers are the most effective way to attract hummingbirds to your garden, you can also provide other food sources like fruit or insects. However, these may not be as effective at attracting hummingbirds as nectar-rich flowers.


Planting fall flowers that are attractive to hummingbirds is a great way to support these beautiful birds during their migration southward. By choosing the right flowers and following a few simple tips, you can create a welcoming environment for these fascinating creatures in your own backyard.