Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that captivate people with their beauty, speed, and agility. While commercial hummingbird feeders are commonly used to attract these birds to backyards, there are also some natural ways to provide food sources for hummingbirds without relying on artificial nectar mixes.
What do hummingbirds eat?
Hummingbirds get most of their nutrition from flower nectar and the small insects they eat. Their long slender beaks and tongues are perfectly adapted for reaching into tubular flowers to drink the nectar inside. Some of the native plants that provide excellent sources of natural nectar for hummingbirds include:
- Trumpet vine
- Honeysuckle
- Bee balm
- Cardinal flower
- Columbine
- Foxglove
- Penstemon
Hummingbirds also consume tree sap, spider webs, and tiny insects like fruit flies, aphids, gnats, midges, and spiders. This protein source provides important nutrients and fat that the birds need for energy.
When and where to feed hummingbirds naturally
The key times to focus on providing natural food sources for hummingbirds are during spring and fall migration when they need plentiful nectar supplies to fuel their long journeys. This is typically from March through May in spring and August through October in fall for most of North America. Having flowering plants from the region available in your garden during this time will help attract and sustain hummingbirds as they travel through.
Types of locations to concentrate natural feeding plants and flowers include:
- Garden beds, window boxes, and pots – These allow positioning flowering plants where their nectar will be most accessible to hummingbirds. Place them near spots where birds congregate like feeders or trees.
- Borders and beds – Mass plantings of flowering species along borders, beds, retaining walls, and fences create corridors of food sources for hummingbirds.
- Trees and shrubs – Many trees and shrubs provide flowers with nectar attractive to hummingbirds. Position these near other feeding areas in your yard.
- Wildflower meadows – Creating wildflower meadows with native species provides excellent natural feeding zones.
- Woodland gardens – Gardens incorporating native woodland plants suited for shade can be havens for hummingbirds.
- Water gardens – Gardens with water features and moisture loving plants like columbine attract hummingbirds.
Aim for continuous blooms throughout spring and fall by planting a variety of flower types and species that bloom at different times. This ensures nectar will always be available for visiting hummingbirds.
Choosing the right plants and flowers
To select the best plants for attracting hummingbirds naturally, follow these guidelines:
- Native species – Choose native plants and flowers from your region that local hummingbirds rely on for food.
- Flower shapes – Tubular, trumpet-shaped, or bowl-shaped blossoms are easiest for hummingbirds to access nectar from.
- Flower colors – Red, orange, pink, and purple flowers tend to attract the most hummingbirds but other colors will also work.
- Plant height – Have a mix of taller and shorter plants to provide food at different heights and allow access.
- Blooming times – Select plants with both early and late seasonal blooms for continuous nectar.
- Plant groupings – Cluster the same species together to create a larger food source for hummingbirds.
Some specific examples of great natural food plants for hummingbirds by region are:
| Region | Recommended Plants |
|---|---|
| Northeast | Bee balm, cardinal flower, columbine, coral bells, hostas, impatiens, phlox, snapdragons, trumpet vine |
| Midwest | Beard tongue, bee balm, cardinal flower, columbine, coral bells, foxglove, honeysuckle, trumpet vine |
| Southeast | Beard tongue, coral honeysuckle, fuchsia, impatiens, penstemon, salvia, shrimp plant, trumpet vine |
| Southwest | Agave, aloe, bee balm, fuchsia, Indian paintbrush, lantana, ocotillo, penstemon, salvia |
| West Coast | Agave, columbine, delphinium, fuchsia, honeysuckle, lupine, penstemon, sages |
Caring for the plants
To optimize the nectar production of natural food plants for hummingbirds, be sure to provide proper care and maintenance:
- Water regularly – Supply consistent moisture to keep plants hydrated and able to produce abundant nectar.
- Fertilize – Use organic fertilizers or compost to nurture plants without chemicals.
- Prune – Trim plants when necessary to encourage new growth with more flowers.
- Deadhead – Remove spent blooms to promote extended or repeat flowering.
- Divide plants – Separate large perennial plants every few years to stimulate vigorous growth.
- Provide support – Use trellises, stakes, or cages to keep tall flowers upright and accessible.
Address issues like leaf browning, poor flowering, or pests immediately to maintain healthy blooms. Remove any toxic plants and use natural remedies for insects when possible.
Supplementing with feeders
While natural food plants can provide the bulk of a hummingbird’s diet, non-commercial feeders may be used strategically to supplement their needs. Here are some tips:
- Use only when essential – Only use feeders when additional food is needed such as during migration or sparse seasonal blooms.
- Select natural nectar – Make your own nectar using 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Do not use food coloring, sweeteners, or commercial mixes.
- Avoid leaks – Select feeder designs that seal tightly and won’t leak sugary liquid that could harm plants or attract pests.
- Clean regularly – Empty, disassemble, wash, and refill feeders every few days to prevent mold and bacteria.
- Use selectively – Place feeders strategically in transition zones between plant feeding areas rather than clustering near plants.
Creating a balanced habitat
In addition to food sources, provide other habitat elements to create a balanced, healthy environment for hummingbirds:
- Water – Small fountains, sprinklers, or bird baths give hummingbirds spots to bathe and drink while flowering.
- Shelter – Trees, shrubs, and trellises offer protected perching, roosting, and nesting sites.
- Species diversity – A variety of plant species supports more insects for protein and pollination.
- Native plants – Native species have co-evolved relationships supporting hummingbird health and reproduction.
- Pesticide avoidance – Eliminate pesticide use which can poison hummingbirds and diminish insect populations they rely on.
- Backyard access – Provide small access points into your yard through fences or walls so hummingbirds can freely enter the habitat.
A natural habitat with diverse flowering species, water sources, shelter options, and native plants will bring hummingbirds flocking to your yard for its plentiful food and resources.
Conclusion
Creating an optimal natural environment to feed hummingbirds requires careful selection and planning but has many rewards. By landscaping thoughtfully with native plants that provide abundant nectar through the seasons, supplementing with clean feeders only when needed, and offering shelter, water, and diversity, you can successfully attract hummingbirds without relying on artificial additions. Developing a balanced habitat using sustainable methods provides these spectacular birds with the healthy, chemical-free food sources they depend on while adding their magic to your outdoor space.
