When it comes to feeding hummingbirds, homemade nectar and store-bought nectar both have their advantages and disadvantages. Homemade nectar can be tailored to a hummingbird’s preferences and allows control over ingredients, but requires more effort to make and has a shorter shelf life. Store-bought nectar is convenient and has preservatives to extend its shelf life, but may contain artificial colors/flavors and excess minerals that can be unhealthy for hummingbirds if consumed long-term.
Key Factors in Nectar Longevity
There are a few key factors that impact how long homemade and store-bought hummingbird nectars last:
- Sugar concentration – Nectar with higher sugar concentrations is less hospitable to microbial growth, extending shelf life.
- Preservatives – Store-bought nectars contain preservatives to prevent spoilage, while homemade nectars do not.
- Storage method – Refrigeration slows microbial growth in both nectar types, extending shelf life.
- Exposure to air/light – Exposure accelerates spoilage; storing nectar in sealed containers reduces exposure.
Balancing these factors allows both homemade and store-bought nectar to achieve optimal freshness and shelf life.
Typical Shelf Life
Under proper storage conditions, the typical shelf life for homemade and store-bought hummingbird nectars is:
| Nectar Type | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Homemade | 3-5 days refrigerated |
| Store-bought | 7-10 days refrigerated |
The shorter shelf life of homemade nectar is due to the lack of preservatives. However, some feeders may accept the tradeoff for the ability to control nectar ingredients.
Maximizing Freshness
Homemade Nectar
To maximize homemade nectar freshness:
- Use a higher sugar concentration (up to 1:4 ratio sugar:water).
- Make smaller batches to reduce waste.
- Refrigerate unused nectar.
- Store nectar in sealed containers away from light.
- Clean feeders thoroughly before refilling.
Store-bought Nectar
To maximize store-bought nectar freshness:
- Select nectars with lower mineral content.
- Refrigerate after opening.
- Dispense unused nectar into sealed containers.
- Rinse feeders before refilling to remove mold.
- Discard nectar if it smellsOddor shows seperation.
Signs of Spoilage
Signs that hummingbird nectar has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Cloudiness
- Visible mold/bacteria
- Fermented smell
- Separation/layering
- Crystallized sugar
Consuming spoiled nectar can make hummingbirds ill. When in doubt, it’s better to discard old nectar and make a fresh batch.
Making Homemade Nectar
To make basic homemade nectar:
- Boil 1 cup water.
- Stir in 1/4 cup white sugar until dissolved.
- Allow to cool before filling feeders.
- Store unused nectar in the refrigerator.
The 1:4 sugar:water ratio approximates natural nectar. Some feeders recommend reducing the sugar content to 1:5 in hot climates. Avoid using honey, brown sugar, or added colors/flavors.
Choosing Store-bought Nectar
When selecting store-bought nectar, look for:
- 1:4 to 1:5 sugar:water ratio
- Minimal added colors/flavors
- Low mineral content
- No-drip packaging
Avoid nectars with added red dye, which is unhealthy for hummingbirds. Clear/plain nectars are best. Also check the sugar type (cane/beet sugar are okay).
Cost Comparison
The cost difference between homemade and store-bought hummingbird nectar depends on sugar prices in your area. On average:
| Nectar Type | Average Cost Per Gallon |
|---|---|
| Homemade | $2 – $4 |
| Store-bought | $5 – $12 |
Given the wider range, store-bought nectar tends to be more expensive per gallon. However, it requires no preparation time. The convenience may be worth the cost for some feeders.
Conclusion
In summary, store-bought hummingbird nectar generally lasts 2-3 days longer than homemade nectar when properly stored. The added shelf life comes from preservatives that homemade nectar lacks. However, homemade nectar allows control over ingredients and is less expensive per gallon to make. There are good reasons to choose either option – convenience for store-bought or customization for homemade. With proper care and refrigeration, both can adequately nourish hummingbirds for approximately a week.
