Hummingbirds have long been admired for their beauty and grace, but did you know they also have a fondness for certain flowers? One of their favorite blooms to feed on is the hibiscus flower. If you are looking to attract hummingbirds to your garden, planting hibiscus is sure to bring these graceful little birds flocking in!
In this article, we’ll find out do hummingbirds like hibiscus and give some tips on how to get the most out of this vibrant plant. Read on to learn more about how to make your garden a haven for hummingbirds.
What Is A Hibiscus Flower?
The hibiscus is a flower that belongs to the mallow family. There are several hundred species in this genus, native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The flowers vary greatly in size, shape, and color, but most share signature features such as five petals and a trumpet-shaped center.
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Do Hummingbirds Like Hibiscus?
Absolutely! Hummingbirds are attracted to hibiscus for its sweet nectar that is produced by both male and female flowers of the hibiscus plant. In addition to providing a tasty treat for these birds, there is also a variety of other benefits that make hibiscus a hummingbird’s favorite flower and an attractive choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds.
The sweet nectar of the hibiscus plant is one of the main reasons why hummingbirds are so attracted to it. Male and female flowers both produce this nutritious source of energy for these birds, making them excellent sources of sustenance. In addition to its sweet aroma, certain varieties also feature brightly colored blooms that catch the attention of hummingbirds from a distance.
Tropical and hardy varieties of hibiscus plants can be found in many different climates, but those that thrive in warmer areas tend to bloom more often than those in cooler regions. This means that if you live in an area with mild winters, you may have a better chance of enticing these birds with your hibiscus garden.
Does The Type/Color Of Hibiscus Matter For Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds will visit any hibiscus flower for its sweet nectar, but certain varieties and colors may be more attractive than others. For example, tropical hibiscus flowers tend to have larger blooms and more vibrant colors than their hardy counterparts. Bright red, pink, and orange flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, so if you want to attract these birds to your garden, it’s a good idea to choose plants that feature these vibrant shades.
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How To Attract Hummingbirds To Your Garden?
A visit from a hummingbird is an exciting experience for any gardener. Not only are these tiny birds mesmerizing to watch, but they play an important role in the pollination of flowers and other plants. If you want more hummingbirds in your garden, then there are a few simple methods you can use to make your garden more hummingbird-friendly.
Plant Native Flowers And Plants
The best way to attract hummingbirds is by planting native flowers and plants that will provide them with nectar. Some great options include columbine, beebalm, lupines, foxglove, butterfly bush, phlox, hollyhock, honeysuckle, and salvia. You should also add some trees for them to nest in or perch on branches such as spruce or fir trees.
Provide Water Sources
Hummingbirds need water just like any other bird species. You can set up a birdbath or hanging water source filled with fresh water for them to drink from or bathe in. You can also provide a shallow dish or bowl of shallow water filled with small stones for them to stand on while drinking or bathing. Finally, sprinklers and misters will give the birds a fun place to play in between meals!
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Use Feeders
Feeders are another great way to attract hummingbirds into your garden. Make sure you use the right kind of feeder and fill it with store-bought nectar that is specifically designed for hummingbirds. Fresh nectar should be refilled every few days when no more birds are visiting it so that it doesn’t spoil. Be sure not to use artificial sweeteners as this can be harmful to the birds!
How To Make The Feeder Squirrel-Proof?
If you’re a bird-lover, then you know how frustrating it can be when pesky squirrels take over the feeder. Not only do they keep birds away, but they can also eat through the food faster than you can replace it. Luckily, there are several ways to squirrel-proof your bird feeder and keep those critters from raiding your bird buffet. Let’s explore some options for making your feeder squirrel-proof.
Hang Your Feeder High And Far Away From Trees Or Fences
The higher up you hang your feeder, the more difficult it is for squirrels to get to it. It should be at least 8 feet off the ground and away from trees or fences that they could use as a bridge to reach it. If possible, try to hang your feeder in an open area that is surrounded by grass instead of trees or other objects that could provide easy access for the squirrels. You may also want to consider moving the feeder periodically so that the squirrels don’t become accustomed to its location.
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Choose A Feeder With Specialized Features
There are many types of specialized bird feeders on the market designed specifically with anti-squirrel features in mind. Most of them work by using a weight-sensitive mechanism that closes down when anything heavier than a small songbird lands on them. There are also some models with a spinning top which prevents any animal from getting a foothold on the perch and helps keep them away from the nectar inside.
Finally, you may want to consider purchasing a cage-style feeder which completely covers the nectar and has openings small enough for birds but not large enough for rodents like squirrels and chipmunks.
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Conclusion
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden can be a fun and rewarding experience. By providing the right food, water sources, and feeders, you can make sure that these beautiful birds have all the resources they need to stay healthy and thrive in your backyard. With the proper precautions such as making your feeder squirrel-proof, you can ensure that your feathered friends can enjoy their new home without interruption! Good luck!
