Plants That Hummingbirds Like To Eat

Do you love hummingbirds and want to attract them to your garden? One of the best ways to do it is by planting flowers and plants that hummingbirds like to eat. While hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar from flowers, they also enjoy eating insects for protein. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the top plants that hummingbirds love and how to care for them.

Best Plants for Hummingbirds

1. Bee Balm

Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a popular flower among hummingbirds due to its bright red, pink or purple blooms. It is a native plant of North America and is easy to grow in full sun or partial shade. This plant grows up to 4 feet tall and attracts not only hummingbirds but also butterflies and bees. Bee balm needs moist soil and regular watering to thrive.

2. Cardinal Flower

The cardinal flower is another stunning red flower that hummingbirds love. This perennial plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and prefers moist soil and partial shade. It blooms from mid-summer to early fall and requires regular watering. The cardinal flower is also deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens with deer.

3. Salvia

Salvia, also known as sage, is a herbaceous perennial plant that comes in various colors such as blue, purple, pink and red. Hummingbirds are attracted to the tubular shape of its flowers and the sweet nectar they produce. Salvia grows best in full sun and well-draining soil. It requires regular watering and deadheading to encourage new blooms.

4. Trumpet Vine

The trumpet vine, also known as Campsis radicans, is a fast-growing woody vine that produces bright orange-red flowers. This plant can grow up to 30 feet tall and prefers full sun or partial shade. The trumpet vine attracts not only hummingbirds but also bees and butterflies. However, it can be invasive and needs regular pruning to keep it under control.

5. Lupine

Lupine is a perennial plant that produces spikes of colorful flowers in shades of blue, pink, purple and red. Hummingbirds are attracted to the sweet nectar produced by its flowers. Lupine grows best in full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Other Plants That Attract Hummingbirds

1. Fuchsia

Fuchsia is a popular hanging plant that produces bright pink or purple flowers with long, tubular shapes. Hummingbirds are attracted to the nectar produced by its flowers. Fuchsia grows best in partial shade and moist soil.

2. Butterfly Bush

The butterfly bush, also known as Buddleia, produces fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple and white. Hummingbirds, as well as butterflies, are attracted to its flowers for their sweet nectar. Butterfly bush grows best in full sun and well-draining soil.

3. Petunia

Petunias come in various colors such as pink, purple, red, white and yellow. Hummingbirds are attracted to their bright colors and sweet nectar. Petunias grow best in full sun and well-draining soil.

4. Zinnia

Zinnias come in various colors such as pink, red, orange, yellow and white. Hummingbirds are attracted to their bright colors and sweet nectar. Zinnias grow best in full sun and well-draining soil.

Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

1. Provide Water Sources

Hummingbirds need water for drinking and bathing. You can provide a shallow bird bath or a misting fountain for them to enjoy.

2. Avoid Using Pesticides

Pesticides can be harmful to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Use natural pest control methods such as companion planting and handpicking insects instead.

3. Plant in Groups

Planting flowers and plants in groups can make them more attractive to hummingbirds. They prefer a concentrated source of nectar rather than scattered blooms.

4. Provide Nesting Material

Hummingbirds need a safe place to build their nests. You can provide nesting material such as twigs, grasses and spider webs in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I attract hummingbirds to my garden?

To attract hummingbirds, you should plant flowers and plants that they like to eat, provide water sources and nesting material, and avoid using pesticides.

2. What time of day do hummingbirds feed?

Hummingbirds feed throughout the day but are most active during the early morning and late afternoon.

3. Do hummingbirds only eat nectar?

No, hummingbirds also eat insects for protein. You can attract them by providing insect-friendly plants in your garden.

4. How often should I water my hummingbird plants?

Hummingbird plants need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water them deeply once a week or more often if needed.

5. How can I tell if a plant is attracting hummingbirds?

You can observe the behavior of hummingbirds around the plant. If they are visiting it frequently and hovering around its flowers, it is likely that the plant is attracting them.

In planting flowers and plants that hummingbirds like to eat is a simple and effective way to attract these beautiful birds to your garden. By following the tips mentioned in this blog post and providing a suitable habitat for them, you can enjoy watching hummingbirds feeding and nesting in your backyard.